NOTKS LND SUGGESTIONS
KOK
BIBLE READINGS
NOTES AND SUGGESTIONS
FOR
BIBLE READINGS,
EDITED BY
S. R. BRIGGS AND JOHN H. ELLIOTT.
" THESE WERE MORE NOBLE THAN THOSE AT THESSALONICA, IW THAT THEY
RECEIVED THE WORD WITH ALL READINESS OF MIND, AND SEARCHED THE
SCRIPTURES DAILY, WHETHER THESE THINGS WERE SO." — ActS Y\\. II.
"SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES."
SECOND EDITION REVISED.
FIFTH THOUSAND.
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CHICAGO:
F. H. REVELL, 148 & 150 MADISON ST.,
TORONTO : WiLLARD Tract Repository.
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Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1879,
Bt F. H. REVELL,
In the oflace of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.
LC Control Number
%m
tnip96 025244
PREFACE.
The object of the present publication is to stimulate to a
more diligent and systematic study of God's Word.
In compiling and preparing the collection of " Notes for
Eible Readings" herewith presented to the Christian public,
no attempt has been made at an elaborate arrangement of
subjects, or to give exhaustive explanatory notes in connection
with any subject ; but the aim has been rather to collect such
7natter as would prove suggestive and awaken further study and
research into the golden depths of the Word.
A large amount of matter has been added, all bearing on
Bible reading, Bible study, &c. ; this has been done in order to
give the best thoughts of some of the most prominent Bible
students and Christian workers of our time, upon this most
important Christian duty and privilege.
These " Notes " have been gathered from various sources ;
many of them have been kindly contributed by friends, and
others are clippings from different religious publications.
Where the authors are known their names or initials have
been given. For all such favors the parties interested will
please accept the thanks of the editors.
This informal volume is now sent out with a prayer that the
promised teaching of the Holy Spirit may attend its use, and that
through its instrumentality many may be led to the Great Teacher,
many led to an entire consecration, and to a deeper and more atten-
tive study of the Word of God.
S. R. BRIGGS.
JOHN H. ELLIOTT.
^^ntx0dnctovmf
BIBLE READINGS.
BY D. W. WHITTLE.
ist. How prepared :
Select some doctrine or exhortation as to Christian living, prac-
tical in the application, and exalting Christ. Among such subjects
will readily occur Grace, Love, Faith, Redemption, Sanctifica-
tion, the Blood, Prayer, the Two Natures, the New Birth, Work,
Warfare, and so on. Take the concordance and read, with prayer,
all the passages bearing upon the topic selected. Get full yourself
of the truth taught. Praise God by yourself and for yourself for its
preciousness. Then, divide your topic into heads, according to
its natural and logical divisions. This is the key to the preparation
of an interesting, profitable, and instructive reading. The bring-
ing together of passages in a jumble, selecting them because they
all contain the same word, cannot interest or profit. There must
be order and a development of thought in the exhortation of doc-
trine for the mind to receive and profit by it.
The reading below is presented as suggesting this plan, not as
the best execution of it.
Be careful in not making the reading too long. Better to di-
vide your topic into five or six readings, and bring out the Scrip-
tures upon each head to your own satisfaction, {than to crowd too
man}^ heads into one reading. You will find the instruction thus
given more easily apprehended and more carefully retained. The
fault with most of us lay workers, who have been uninstructed in
logical presentation of truth, is in the beginning of our work to
make our readings too cumbersome. My first Bible reading on
Faith contained some sixty Scripture references. Before they were
all read the audience were tired, and it was a source of anxiety and
difficulty for me to interest them. That same Bible reading pre-
pared for one meeting has now developed into seven, given as a
course, at seven successive meetings, with seeming interest and
appreciation on the part of the people, and pleasure to myself.
I have used for this reading, and for others, as a matter of
convenience, the Scripture suggestion of the number seven, in
making up the heads of the topics. For instance, upon Faith the
order of the readings and their divisions is as follows :
I St. Seven reasons for reasonableness of Faith (all Scripture
texts.)
2nd. Seven directions as to how Faith is received.
3rd. Seven things possessed by Faith.
8 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS*
4th. Seven fruits of Faith.'
5th. Seven trials of Faith.
6th. Seven things said of those without Faith.
7th. Seven triumphs of Faith.
Two or three Scripture references are used under each head,
making each reading consist of between twenty and twenty-five
texts.
It will, of course, be understood that this subdivision and elabo-
ration is recommended only for those topics that in the nature of
the case, by the wide scope of truth embraced by them, require
it. More simple topics would be better treated condensed into one
reading. After your Scripture texts are arranged, endeavour un-
der each one of your headings to have one or more appropriate
illustrations, to make clear the truth and to fasten it in the
memory.
2nd. How to give Bible readings.
The method should vary with the character of the audience and
the circumstances and surroundings of the meeting. In a very
large audience it is better to read the passages yourself, asking the
audience to turn to them and all join with you in the reading.
Give time for all to turn to the passages, and read slow and dis-
tinct enough for all to join. Pay much attention to emphasis
in reading. The proper interpretation of the text will often be
revealed by proper emphasizing of the words.
In a small audience, in a lecture room where persons reading
in different parts of the room can be readily heard, give out your
references — one text to a person, if you have good readers enough,
if not, two or more texts to the same person. Use slips of paper
in giving out the references. Have them prepared before you go to
the meeting, and ask some one who is acquainted with the
audience to distribute them to good readers as you are singing the
opening hymn, or (this is far better) before you commence the
exercises.
It is not safe to call out references and let them be taken by
volunteers. Some will have wrong passages and some will not read
distinctly. The slips will also give you trouble unless the person
giving them out is judicious, and makes each one who receives a
slip understand that they are to read the passage promptly when
called for. It is best for the leader, also, as he opens the meet-
ing to distinctly explain what he expects of those who have re-
ceived slips, and to request them if they do not intend to comply
to pass the slip back.
After calling for a reference twice, with slight interval, the
leader had better read himself, not delaying the audience for
those who have lost the place.
Let the word stand out clear aad speak for itself. Simply call
attention to the obvious truth each reference presents, a.id its
connection and place in the subject you are developing. Have
faith in the presence of the Holy Spirit as the teacher. Have con-
^dence in the power of the Word to do its own work. Be humble
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGii. 9
in the advancement of your interpretation of the text, and always
fortify your interpretation, not by quoting human authority, but the
Word itself. Remember James iii. i. " My brethren, be not
many teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater condem-
nation." The less oi our thought and our ideas in the reading", the
more profitable it will be to us and to all.
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
BY REV. LYMAN ABBOTT.
'I. — Means of Study. — In answering the question which I have
epitomized in the title of this and three succeeding letters on the
subject, I shall assume that you have neither the means to pur-
chase a large Hbrary nor the time and opportunity to make good use
•of it if you had it. I shall assume that you are engaged in some
form of Bible instruction, and that y.ou want some suggestions to aid
you in getting a clear practical knowledge of the Bible yourself,
which you ma)^ impart to others.
For this purpose you need a library. You cannot study with-
out books. But your library need not be large or expensive ; a j ack-
knife in skilful hands is better than a full tool-chest in the hands
of ?, bungler.
First you must have a reference Bible, and a good one. It is a
matter of no mean importance to have one Bible that is good enough
to last a life-time. I have one, a Bagster, that I have carried over
twenty years. I can turn to a book, a chapter, or a text with
•celerity, for I have learned to know the verses by their locali-
ties ; in another Bible I might ransack the pages for the missing
verse in vain. Buy your Bible in flexible binding. It costs m^ore
but it never wears out.
Next to a reference Bible is a Bible Text-book and a Concord-
ance ; the Text-Book is more important than the Concordance as
well as cheaper. The difference between a Text-book and a Con-
cordance is that the former gives you references to Scripture teach-
ing according to subjects, while the latter gives a classification of
all Scripture texts according to words. Thus, if you look in your
Concordance for the word " atonement" you will find only one verse
referred to, for the word only occurs once in the New Testa-
ment ; but if you look in your Text-Book you will find many
references, for the New Testament is full of the doctrine. The
use of a Concordance is to find a given text, one important word of
which you know ; the use of the Text-Book is to find a collection
•of Bible texts on any given theme, not one of which you may have
known before.
Next to the Text-Book and Concordance, w^hich are simply
contrivances for finding out what is in the Bible, comes a good
Bible Dictionary. The object of this is to give a knowledge of bib-
lical gfeo^raphy and antiquities, without which much that is in the
10 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Bible IS but imperfectly intelligible. For scholars who want to
Ftudy the conflicting themes and opinions of learned men there is
nothing so good as the American edition of Smith's Bib.-e Diction-
ary, in four voulmes. But he who has not acquired some practical
skill in the balancing pros and cons is liable to get lof t in the
labyrinthine discussions of this scholarly work. For such, a " Dic-
tionary of Religious Knowledge" is published by Harper & Brothers
which aims to include both all biblical subjects and all impor-
tant theological and ecclesiastical topics. Of that, since I was its
chief editor, I shall not say anything more than that it was pre-
pared with especial view to the wants of those biblical students
who desire a volume to give them the results without the processes
of scholarship. '
Next to a Bible Dictionary is a good Commentary on the Bible^
I know a great many persons express a contempt for commenta-
ries, and as commentaries are often used the contempt is natu-
ral ; only it is deserved by the use, not by the book. The com-
mentary is not a book to be studied, it is a book to help you study
the Bible. Knives and forks are better than fingers for the purpose
of eating ; but the man who should attempt to eat knives and forks
would have a sorry meal. Study the Bible ; let a good commentary
help you in your study. It will give you the best reading when
there are variations. It will give you the meaning of the original
when the English version is inadequate. It will give you light on
manners and customs when they are needed as interpreters. It
will give you the connection with the context and light from parallel
passages when the meaning is obscure. It will indicate to you
the spiritual purpose of the writer and of the Spirit of God in the
writer, and it will give you the best suggestive thoughts of the best
thinkers, or some of them, respecting the meaning and use of the
passage. It is the very folly of self-conceit to assume, as some of
the critics of the commentaries do, that any man can pick up his
Bible, and in half an hour read as much in a verse or a chapter^
without aid, as he can after a conference with the most devout
and scholarly thinkers who have spent days and weeks in the
reverent study of the same book and perhaps the identical passage
under consideration.
Finally you need to complete your librar3'', a blank-book in
which to enter the results of your study. I do not advise any sys-
tem of Bible-marking. Keep your Bible clean to express to
you God's thoughts, not to serve as a journal, or a diary of your
own. The best blank-book for library purposes is an interleaved
Bible : the best for use in the class is a little blank-book to be carried
in the pocket ; better than either is a combination ; a small blank-
book to jot down the thought at the moment — to serve as the
merchant's day-book — and an Index Rerum or an interleaved
Bible into which these thoughts are transferred from time to time
— to serve as the merchant's journal and ledger.
One other means of study is as important as a library— that is
time. If you will select half an hour — the morning half hour is
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. II
the best, in my judgment — for regular and systematic study
of the Word of God, though each day you will- do but little, you
will be surprised to find how much you have learned in the course
of the year. The tortoise still beats the hare in the race.
2nd. Methods :
Turn a college student adrift in the iVstor Library or the Con-
gressional Library, and though he might enjoy himself in a de-
sultory way in mousing among the books he would come out at
the end of the day little wiser than he went in. He should first
ask. How is the library arranged ?
Where are the historical alcoves ? Where is the philosophy ?
Where the belles-lettres? Fitful dashes at the Bible — the
Psalms to-day, the Epistles to-morrow. Exodus the day after —
give a man about as much knowledge of the Bible as a child gets
of Botany who goes gathering wild flowers in the woods in May.
A study of the Bible as a whole is a necessary preliminary.
What is the Bible ? It is a library. How long was it in
process of evolution — or creation, if that is a more orthodox word ?
About sixteen hundred years. Of what does it consist ? Laws,
political economy, history, poetry, biography, fiction, theology*
How do you divide it ? The first five books of the Old Testament
are laws and political economy ; the next twelve books are history ;
the rest are poetry and prophecy. The first four books of the New
Testament are biography ; the next one is history ; the rest, ex-
cept Revelation, are theology and philosophy, but always writ-
ten for a practical purpose and with a practical application. The
last book is a poem, a picture, a drama.
This short catechism indicates what I mean by the study of the
Bible as a whole. This gives the outlines of the structure.
Some knowledge of authors, their times, their civilization, their
purpose in writing, the characteristics of Jewish laws, of ancient
history, of Hebrew poetry are equally necessary. Any good
Bible Dictionary, any good Commentary, will give you more or
less material for such preliminary study. In connection with many-
Sunday-schools are Normal Classes to pursue such courses of
study. The}^ ought to be more numerous than they are.
The study of individual books is a secondary preliminan/. How
many of even tolerably well educated Sunday-school teachers
have any idea of the significance and purpose and character of
single books of the Bible — Leviticus, Ruth, Job, Ecclesiastes !
How many know any generic difference between the Epistle to
the Philippians and that to the Galatians ? We read the Bible
as Jack Horner ate his Christmas pudding — pick out the plums
and sometimes with the same result ; when we are through our
morning chapter we take our reward in a sweet sense of self-satis-
faction, *' What a good boy am T ! "
Let me illustrate what I mean by the study of individual books.
The scholar has read verses and chapters from the book of Job.
He has heard repeatedly quoted, " Oh that mine adversary had
written a book 1' He has no idea what it means, for the quotation
i2 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
is always semi-jocular. He takes up the book of Job to study it.
What is it ? A poem, a parable, a story — whether fiction founded
on fact or fiction without any fact-foundation is not very material,
it is certainly as true as the parable of the prodigal son, and
that is true enough. Who was Job ? A man who lived in the
world's twilight. No *' Sun of Righteousness" had risen on him.
He never refers to law, or priest, or prophet, or dream, or divine
revelation of any kind. He was a worshipper of a true but a
wholly unknown God. He was a Hebrew Socrates. His religion
was the "religion of nature." Ifit besaid that he possessed in ad-
dition that knowledge of God which had trickled down through
tradition from the patriarchal age, it may be replied that every
devout heathen has possessed the same knowledge. He lived
in the faith of the aphorism, Be virtuous and you will be happy.
So long as he was prosperous his " religion of nature" stood
him in good stead. But adversity came. His property was swept
away ; his children were killed ; disease laid hold on him ; nothing
was left but his wife, and she was almost the direst misfortune of
all. He was utterly overwhelmed ; was in hopeless perplexity. The
very foundations of his faith were broken up. His three friends
insisted on it that all this was a punishment for his sins.
He was too good a man to play at mock humility, and indignantly
-denied it. He maintained his virtue, and yet he could not
give up his faith in God ; so his perplexity embittered his grief.
Out of it comes the cry for just that which the divine revelation
gives to us in our sorrow. '' Oh for a Daysman ! Oh for a divine
disclosure of the unknown ! Oh that this divine Enemy who has
-suffered blow on blow to fall upon me had written a book to
explain his ways and reveal his will ! " Natural religion fails in
great sorrow. Then the soul wants a Saviour ; wants a Bible.
When the student has gotten this general view of the book of
Job, as a parabolic poem teaching the need of a supernatural
Christianity, all in the book, every cry ot Job, every super-
cilious consolation offered by his three miscalled friends, becomes
significant. No man can understand a part that does not under-
stand the whole. He that would interpret aright a single flower
in the tapestry must first stand off a little and get a view of the
whole pattern.
" Vanity of vanities ; all is vanity." It is not true, all is not
vanity. This world is God's university. It is magnificently
•endowed. As a training-school for another life beyond it is ad-
mirable. No man can read aright the book of Ecclesiastes
who does not consider it as the experience of a man who had
not taken this world as a training-school : who had sought for
happiness in wealth, pleasure, riches ; who had drank life's cups
and found it foam on top and dregs at the bottom. " Vanity of van-
ities ; all is vanity'' is not the Christian verdict ; it is the mis-
anthrope's wail. It is the testimony ot the blase man of the
world. It is true only from his point of view. The student must
know the author of Ecclesiastes and his life and his purpose
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. IJ
before he can understand the book. Who would interpret
Childe Harold as though Cowper had written it ?
The Epistle to the Philippians is the letter of thanks of a for-
eign missionary box. The Epistle to the Galatians is the letter of
admonition to the fickle-minded Frenchmen of the first century
because their zeal of love had turned to ceremonialism. The
Epistle to the Romans is a treatise on systematic theology in the
form of a letter. Each must be read in the light of its origin and
object.
This general course of study of the structure of the whole Bible
and of individual books in the Bible is preliminary to study in
detail of their contents. It will give all the advantage to be
gained by reading the Bible through in course. I do not advise
any one to undertake such a reading. I should as soon think of
attempting to read a library through, or a cyclopedia. I should
almost as soon think of eating a hotel course all through, dispos-
ing of all the soups in order to-day and beginning on the fish
course to-morrow. The only, certainly the chief, use of such a
course of reading is that thus you may get a general knowledge of
the contents of the Bible, and the method of study which I have-
indicated is far better for that purpose.
3. More About Methods. — The possible ways of studying
the Bible are as diverse as human minds. To lay down rules for
Bible study would be as preposterous as to lay down rules of
locomotion for fish, flesh, and fowl. The first and fundamental
principle is this : Let each man study the Bible in his own way.
One man who is systematic will do it with regularity; another
who is moody will do it according to his moods ; one who is
analytical will do it by collation and comparison of texts ; another
who is not will study its historical books and its biographies ;
still another will find most nutriment in its books ol poetry. Let
each bee go where he gets honey. Buzzing at a flower whose
honey is beyond your reach is useless. Do not take another
man's method unless it tits your mind. A shepherd's sling and a
smooth stone are better for David than Saul's armor.
All that I shall attempt to do in this and a succeeding and a
final letter will be to illustrate, from my own experience, three
methods of Bible study.
I. Biographical. I began a fevs^ weeks ago reading the story of
Joseph at family prayers. I found that it solved very satisfac-
torily the problem presented by a pastor's wife last week in her
article, " Babies in prayer-time." The youngest sat in my lap,
the next 5^oungest sat in. his chair by my side. I take it for
granted that the older members of the family can read the Bible
for themselves ; I therefore conduct family prayers for the benefit
of the youngest members. As I read I explained ; substituted
short words for long ones ; stopped for questions, and answered
them. The episode about Potiphar's wife I omitted. I read
but little at a time. The Scripture reading served as a serial
story. Both the " babies in prayer-time" wanted me to read more.
14 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Two or three Sundays after we had completed the course I over-
heard them playing church. The youngest was preaching ; and
he told the whole story of Joseph with only now and then a
blunder. Then the next older one corrected him. One is four
years old, the other is five and a half. This is the biographical
method in its simplest form. It is capable of indefinite expansion
and variation.
The life of David affords admirable material for a course of
study. " Townsend's Bible" or Harper's "Dictionary of Religious
Knowledge" will give you the occasion of the composition of his
various Psalms. Read the life ; look up the geographical refer-
•ences in your Bible Dictionary ; and read the Psalms in connec-
tion with the experiences from which they were evolved. Psalms
xlii., xliii., which are really one, have a new meaning when you
read the story of anguish and bitterness out of which they sprang,
like a flower watered by the springs of Marah. There is no such
song in the night as this Psalm. David's declaration in Psalm
iii., " I laid me down and slept," is meaningless until you know
when he slept. It only indicates that he was sleepy ; men have
'even been known to go to sleep of a Sunday afternoon in church,
and it was not imputed to them for righteousness. But consider
the circumstances. He was fleeing from Jerusalem, his life
threatened by his favorite son, his kingdom apparently wrested
from him, some of his most trusted counsellors turned against
.him, desolate in the present and not knowing what was before
>him in the future, and then and there, on the edge of the wilder-
ness, with only the sky above him for a roof, and but a tew firm
iriends for companions, he was able to sleep in peace. Now" see
:n this simple declaration one of the strongest illustrations of the
power of faith and trust which the Bible contains. How often
that text has sung me to sleep in times when but for it I must have
passed an anxious, troubled and sleepless night ! No man knows
either David or his Psalms who has not read the story of his life
through in chronological order, and in connection with the record-
ed experiences which his life produced. The life is God's hands
striking the heartstrings ; the Psalms are the music the heart gives
iori:h.
The life oi Paul is an admirable theme for a course of biograph-
ical study. And the autobiographical passages in his epistles
should be studied in connection with Luke's history; e.g., Philip-
pians iii., 4-10, with Acts ix., 1-18. Any good religious dictionary
or commentary will give the references.
Best of all is the " Life of Christ." Mr. Beecher somewhere
has given an account 01 the light borne in upon his own soul by
readmg through at a sitting one oi the gospels, for the purpose of
getting a clear and connected idea 01 the character of Christ. That
his ministry has always been so peculiarly a Christly ministry is
in no small measure attributable to that one experience. A more
-elaborate study may easily be made by taking either a Harmony
of the Gospels or one of the many lives of Christ, and then study-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. I5
ing in detail each incident, miracle and teaching in its appropriate
place, and with a consideration of its relation to Christ's whole
life-work. The story of the Syro-Phenician woman has been a
perplexity to many minds, simply because they did not know that
Christ was off on a vacation, and that to have performed the
miracle asked of him would have defeated his purpose ; did in fact
defeat it, and drove him from the rest and retirement he was seek-
ing" in a heathen country.
It is somewhat more difficult, but not less profitable, to trace
the growth of character by a comparison and collation of scattered
passages ; the development of Peter from the rude and profane
fisherman to the eloquent revivalist, or the development of John
from the fiery disciple who would have called divine destruction
down upon the Samaritan village to. the gentle and loving author
of John's Gospel.
2. Topical. The topical method is one of endless variety ; but
the principle is always the same. The object of the student is to
ascertain what is the teaching of the Bible on any given topic.
The instruments are very simple. They are a reference Bible, a
Bible Text-book, a Concordance ; and common sense.
Last year at Chautauqua Dr. Vincent asked me to conduct an
Eventide Conference on the " Peace of God." I borrowed a Bible,
Text-book and a Concordance ; and I prepared lour or five slips
of paper, on which I wrote such questions as the following, a
separate question on each slip :
In what does this peace consist ?
What are its characteristics
Who can attain it ?
How can it be attained ?
How is it lost ?
Then I took my Bagster Bible and my wife took the Con-
cordance, and together we looked for the Bible answers to these
questions. She read to me from the Concordance every text that
contained the word " peace ; " I looked them up in the Bible and
put the answers which they gave me in their appropriate places
on my memoranda. Thus, *' Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace
whose mind is stayed on thee" went down on two memoranda:
under "characteristics of peace" I wrote perfect; under "how
at^-iined " I wrote by trust in God. The text, " The peace of God
which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds
t irough Christ Jesus," three times. This is a guardian peace ;
it IS too deep for intellectual analysis ; and it is given through faith
in jfesus Christ. So we went through the Concordance ; then we
went through the, Bible Text Books, which gave us additional
texts that did not contain the word peace ; such as that promise
in Isaiah, " When thou passest through the waters I will be with
thee, and through the rivers, they shall no^ overflow thee," and
such as that invitation in Matthew, " Come unto Me all ye that
labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." The result
of three or four hours of such study was a series of answers sojue-
l6 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
thing like the following ; I am writing from memory without my
notes before me.
The peace of God is (i) God's own peace, the peace that be-
longs to the divine nature ; (2) it therefore belongs to the children
of God just in the measure in which they become partakers of the
divine nature. (3) It is deep, perfect, everlasting. (4) It is peace
from the burden and curse of sin. (5) It is peace m all times of
sorrow and trouble. (6) It is given by God through faith in Jesus
Christ. (7) The conditions of receiving it are consecration to God
and trust in God. (8) The lack of peace always indicates either
imperfect consecration or imperfect trust.
This account may serve to illustrate what I mean by the topical
study of the Bible. The varieties in method are endless, as the
reader will at once perceive. It requires no great scholarship to
pursue such a study. And I believe that if the ministry generall}^
would search through the Bible in this way for its answers to their
questions, instead of going to their Calvin's and their Watson's
Institutes, their sermons on theological points — and theology is oi
all themes the one of the greatest popular interest — would be
more original, more striking, more authoritative, and more potent
in their direct practical and spiritual appeal to the hearts, and con-
sciences of hearers.
4. Studying the Sunday-School Lesson. — Paul has told us
what the Bible is good for. It is profitable for doctrine — i. e.j for
religious instruction. And then he specifies the particulars : for
reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness ; that
is, it is useful to convince men of their sins, to set them on the
road to reform, and to instruct them on questions of right and
wrong when they have started out on that road. The Bible is a
tool, and this is the work that is to be done with it. Now, in using
any tool, the first and instinctive question of a good workman is,
What am I to do with this tool at this time ? The chisel in the
hand of a carpenter is not one tool, but many ; and he always,
though not always consciously, considers what he means to do
with it before he begins his work ; and of all his various chisels he
selects that particular one which is best fitted for his purpose.
The first question you, as a Sunday-school teacher, are to ask
yourself — the first question that your pastor ought to ask himself
in preparing his sermon, is this : What am I going to do with this
Scripture ? Am I going to use it to convince my scholars of their
sins and their need of a Saviour, or to awaken in them a resolu-
tion of repentance and reformation, or to instruct them in the
right way — assuming that they already want to walk in it ; or am
I to use it in all these ways according to my scholars' characters
and dispositions ?
And again : Am I to use it to convince generally of sin, or of
some particular sin ; to lead generally to repentance and reform-
ation, or to a resolution of reform in some particular ?
To get the answer to these questions, take first your Bible and
the golden text, which you will generally find useful because it
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
17
represents what some able Bible scholars think to be the use of
the particular Scripture before you. Study these before you look
at the *' Lesson Helps." Fix firmly in your mind what you think
to be the use of that lesson to you in your class, no matter what
some one else could find in it for a different class of minds. For
you, in a Bible class, are not to use it as your companion in
Christ is to use it in the infant class. The answer to these ques-
tions is something that no one else can give to you. It mmst
simply come from much and prayerful pondering of the' text
itself. Sometimes it will flash upon you on the first reading ;
sometimes it requires a long pondering to arrive at a result.
But whenever this result is arrived at, half your work, and the
best half, is done.
Next, with this aim clearly before you, and I think that it is
often an advantage to write it down to give clearness to your own
mind, begin your study of the details. Study these as far as they
will help you to accomplish your object. Your lesson is the folly
of Rehoboam. It is small matter whether he got his name from
his father prophetically or whether it was subsequently given to
him in derision by the people. Do not waste much time over
that. Your lesson is the conversion of Paul. You are going to
use it in an endeavour to bring some of your hesitating, procras-
tinating pupils to a final decision. Do not waste time in deciding
which of the three routes Paul probably took to Damascus.
Your lesson is Elijah by the brook Cherith. You have a skeptic
in your class, and you determine to use this lesson to show the
reality of the miracles in the Old Testament. Then you need to
know whether the ravens were really ravens, or were, as some
scholars contend, merchants ; but if you are going to use the
lesson to confirm faith in the Providential care of God over all
those who trust in him, it is a matter of small or no account
whether he used merchants or ravens for this purpose. So your
pre-determined use of the lesson will determine the nature of
your subsequent studies.
When you have thus laid out your lesson in your own mind
considered the questions most likely to arise and most important
to be answered, and perhaps put your thoughts down in a note-
book, you may advantageously take up your lesson helps ; but in
general they should not be taken up before. They should be
" helps" to an independent stud}' of the Bible, not a substitute
for it. Not till this preliminary work is done are you ready to
get the full benefit of the thoughts of others, which you are
otherwise liable to substitute for your own. They must become
your own before you can make the best use of them ; but for this
purpose they must be engrafted on your own stock, filtered through
your own brain. You must be a fruit-tree, not a barrel of plucked
apples ; a spring, not a cistern.
Finally, of all helps the Bible is the best. That is, in deter-
mining what is the meaning of any teaching or the use of any
incident, find out if you can what use the sacred writers have
2
l8 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
made of it themselves, or what truth contained in it is elsewhere
illustrated or enforced by other parallel teachings of Scripture.
Let me interpret and illustrate these principles by their use in
the latest lesson that I have studied — the one in this week's
paper.
I first turn to my Bible and read the passage, i Kings xvii.
I- 1 6. Why was this story told ? What lesson has it for me ?
For if I can apply it to myself I can, with power such as is only
derived from personal experience, apply it to others. I see in it
a threefold trial of courage : first, the courage of work ; second,
the courage of patience ; third, the courage of charity. This lies
on the surface. Are there other lessons ? Yes, there are two
that the Lord himself drew from this incident, one in Luke iv.
25-26 ; the other in Matt. x. 41, 42. The ground of courage, the
Lord's provision for his own, is there also : a more beautiful illus-
tration of the principle that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the
Mount, Matt. vi. 26, I know not where you will find. This is the
use I will make of it ; to inculcate a stronger courage, a broader
charity, a more hopeful trust. Then come the questions, Where
was the brook Cherith ? Why did God employ ravens ? Where
was Zarephath ? What were the peculiarities of an Eastern
famine, etc.? If the ascertainable answers to these questions aid
in accomplishing my object I study them ; if they do not I pass
them by without an answer. Then follows the use of the work oi
previous writers in the same field — Stanley, Robinson, Taylor,
Keil, Maurice, etc. — from whom I gleam but do not reap.
These are the outlines ; the varieties in method are endless
Sometimes the lesson calls for but little extra- Biblical study ,
sometimes it requires a great deal ; ordinarily, study of the Bible
comes first, "helps" afterwards; but sometimes the study of
geography, or customs, or seemingly secondary questions, must
precede the determination of the question, What use shall I make
of this Scripture ? Thus, in order to understand the meaning oi
the fire test between Elijah and the priests of Baal, it is necessary
to know something more about Baal than is disclosed in the
Bible, at least on a mere reading of it.
But however he may vary in his method — and he will never
study two lessons exactly alike, and no two teachers will study
the same lesson exactly in the same manner — he must always
study it with the same object kept steadily in view ; the moral
and spiritual benefit, first, of himself, and, second, of his class.
Not he who is the most learned, or the most polished, or the
most eloquent, but he who is most " apt to teach " is the best
teacher. And he who most constantly keeps in view the great
fact that the lesson is but an instrument, that his real object is
the development of Christian disposition and character in his
scholars, that all Scripture is profitable for this purpose, is the one
" most apt to teach."
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
SYNOPSIS OF AN ADDRESS BY W. J. ERDMAN, CHICAGO.
There are two books of God — Nature and the Bible. Creation
and redemption are the two works of God, and the works are
words, John xiv. lo. Both Creation and Redemption lead to
faith in God, John iii. 12 : iii. 31 ; Luke xii. 22-28 ; Psalm cxix.
64; Rom. X. 17-18. Both should be studied in the same way.
li it seems surprising to discuss the methods of Bible study at so
late a day after it has been in the hands of men for hundreds of
years, let us remember the marvellous discoveries of natural
science fall within the last two centuries, and are due to a change
of the methods of investigation. Have w^e studied the Bible as
scientists now investigate nature ? Science creates no new facts,
theology no truths; all is finished for man to search out. How
shall he search out the work of Creation and the work of Redemp-
tion ?
1. Thest>irlt in which to study is that of a child. Lord Bacon
said, " one mu^t enter the kingdom of the natural sciences as one
enters the kingdom of heaven, like a little child." A child is
humble, trustful, docile, without prepossessions, theories or fixed
opinions. The world before it is like to an Adam new and fresh.
If a botanist finds a strange flower, he lets the flower tell him
what it is ; he has neither knowledge or name for it ; what it is,
becomes, or rather is its name ; if a mineralogist meets a strange
stone he asks it questions, and puts into a stone only what he
first gets out ; in like manner a Bible student must wait on a verse
or text or epistle or any book or part thereof to tell him what it
is. Many readers get out of a verse just what they first put in,
and that may be all of man's wisdom and not at all the mind oif
God. We must go to the word of God therefore with the humil-
ity, simplicity, and receptivity of a little child.
But the question is also what kind of a child ; and the answer
is a child of God ; and if a child of God, then must the Spirit of
God be the Light in which to study the words and works of God.
The written word is like the word made flesh, divine and human,
and it must be studied w^ith the light of the divine Spirit in the
human. God alone can show God.
• This is the axiom in the study of the two books, God is : Heb.
xi. 6 ; but more needful to study truly is it to know not only that
God is, but that He is the Father, and the student and reader His
child. The *' natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit
of God," whether revealed in the Bible or in nature, for the flower
and the Cross teach the same lesson, trust in God ; but scientists
rarely read the lessons from off the lily and the bird which Jesus
full of the Spirit of God read, Luke xii. 22-28; i Cor. ix. lo; Ps.
cxix. 18 ; Amos iv. 13; John i. 1-3 ; i. 14; i. 18; iii. 16-18.
20 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
God's word is thus written for Plis children and must be receiv-
ed humbly and reverently and eagerly, and in the absolute faith
in which a child takes the word of his father. Always then take
for granted that God is. Never try to prove it. It is Father's
book. He wrote it Himself. He wrote it for us. Believe every
word of it, or we shall never get the good of it. Men think
prophecy is a dark subject, and the only use of it is to prove that
God knew something beforehand, and that he has not lied to us.
Prophecy is to teach God's children His purposes. A person
may think he knows all about the Bible because he has read it
through six or seven times. But this may be mere surface work,
I may go through a country on an express train several times,
and still know nothing of it. To walk through it and get ac-
quainted with its stones and trees and flowers and delis and
streams and to love it as all my own, is a very different matter.
We must love the word and not only for our sake, but for His
sake who is in it. Reading it through and through will do no
good, unless we love it and see into it as a lover of nature sees
into the woods and stones. In brief it must be searched in sim-
plicity, with colorless desire to be taught ; with earnest quest, as
men seek for a knowledge of nature ; in the receptive, humble,
reverent faith of a child, with the attention and intentness that
shall let nothing escape notice ; with the love and appropriation
with which a child reads his own father's letter for himself, and
above all, with the dependence upon and illumination of the
Spirit of God which leads one to unlock every Scripture with the
key of filial expectant prayer. Such is the way in which we
should study the word of God.
n. The method of study is the inductive. All the parts to jot
and tittle must first be gathered together before a conclusion is
stated or a name given. The stones of one kind must all be
brought together however varied their forms, and the flowers
classified though scattered through many parts and climes. Ecc.
iii. II ; Ps. xl. 5 ; xix. 1-6.
Take a concordance and find a word — run it through the Bible.
Take for instance, glory, glorified. You will find in it a wonder-
ful line of thought. The cloud of glory is associated with it. In
that cloud IS wrapped both the blessing and the wrath of God.
Study by phrases. Separate them. See how they are used.
Get their meaning in every context. Find out their exact force
and colour.
Such study will bring to light resemblances and difference's,
types and antitypes, shadows and body, times and seasons,
peoples and dispensations, the eternal purpose, the varied pre-
paration, and the final fulfilment.
Such method is self-interpreting, light is seen in light, Ps.
xxxvi. 9 ; cxix. 6 ; and the conclusions reached become in turn
keys and openings to further knowledge. The Bible is a living
growth. Its structure is mathematical like the universe, and its
numbers are symbolic. It is photographic and so microscopic.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 21
The thought is one like the mind : one yet manifold through ages
of revelation. It is timeless as one thought from the beginning,
and so can have no contradictions ; and when finished and ful-
filled all its seeming contradictions will be known as the parts of
a vast, far-reaching harmony. The Old Testament is found in
the New and the New in the Old, i Cor. x. ii ; Rom. v. 12-19 ;
Eph. v. 32 ; Gal. iv. 21-31 ; i Pet. iii. 21 ; Gen. i. 3 ; 2 Cor. iv. 6.
III. The instruments, means, and helps may be briefly stated in
the order of their nearness to any one :
I. A Reference Bible. 2. A Text-Book. 3. A Bible Diction-
ary. 4. A Concordance. 5. A Translation. 6. An English-
man's Greek Concordance. 7. A Commentary. Never consult
a Commentary on any doctrine in cold blood ; think, study, search
first yourself.
IV. The result of such study is life, love, worship, likeness. One
leads to the other, John xvii. 3 ; i. 1-4; i John iv. 7-8 , Rom. li.
32-36 ; xii. 1-2 ; John iv. 20-24 ; 2 Cor. iii. 18. — Frjm The Truth,
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
First. There must be a profound conviction of the truth that
"ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable
for doctrine, for reproof (or evidence, as the word is rendered in
Heb. xi. i), for correction, for instruction in righteousness," (2
Tim. iii. 16) ; " For the prophecy came not in old time (or, as the
margin has it, at any time) by the will of man : but holy men of
God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost," (2 Pet. i.21) ;
^* For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because
when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye
received it not as the word of man, but, as it is in truth, the word
01 God," (i Thess. ii. 13.)
Similar testimony in a more or less direct and positive form
might be cited trom hundreds ol passages, lor the whole Bible
proceeds upon the assumption, so apparent even to the casual
reader, that it is the voice of God speaking through men unto
men. It is obvious, therefore, that each little word, as of, the, in,
from, to, which we are so apt to overlook in human writings, is
worthy of particular and devout attention. It is true that unim-
portant errors may have crept into this and that version or trans-
lation, but when competent scholarship conducts us to the words
the Holy Ghost really used, we are to consider every one of these
,as having its own definite place and meaning in the book of God.
Hence it is never proper in quoting Scripture to give what we
;may suppose to be its sense, but we should see to it that the very
language of revelation is presented to the minutest particle.
Second. All Scripture is designed to lead us to Christ. "Search
the scriptures," He said to the Jews, and of course He referred to
the Old Testament scriptures; "for in them ye think ye have
22 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
eternal life : and they are they which testify of me," (John v. 39).
He does not say that some of the Scriptures merely, but all of
them, testify of Him. "Had ye believ^ed Moses, ye would have
believed me : for he wrote of me,") John v. 46 ; " And beginning
at Moses, and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all
the scriptures the things concerning himself," (Luke xxiv. 27)^
He began at Moses, and not only at some, but all the prophets,
and expounded unto them not simply in some, but in all the
Scriptures the things concerning Himself. " These are the words
which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things
must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in
the prophets and in the psalms, concerning me," (Luke xxiv. 44).
These were the three great divisions of the Old Testament, and our
Lord declares that all were written concerning Him. It is not
strange, therefore, that Paul could persuade his countrymen
" concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the
prophets, from morning till evening," (Acts xxviii. 23).
P'rom all this it is clear that if we read a chapter in the Old
Testament, and do not see Christ there, we must go back and
read it again, for we have not found the key to its true meaning..
Out of the innumerable events that occurred during nearly four
thousand years in the history of nations and families and indi-
viduals, it pleased the Holy Ghost to collect and record only those
that bore in the way of type or illustration upon the person and
work of God's promised Son. This must be admitted at once by
those who will take the trouble to compare the quotations from
the Old Testament applied to Christ in the New, that very often
at least as they originally appear do not seem to have the slightest
reference to our Saviour. If, therefore, some in the early
Church, and in the days of the Reformation carried their search
after types to a dangerous extreme, the modern Church exhibits
a tendency to a far more dangerous extreme, in the opposite
direction, by failing to see that all the narratives, and offerings,.
and feasts, and predictions of the Old Testament centre about
the cross and crown of Jesus.
Third. We must study the Bible with the full persuasion that
we have to do personally with all it contains. " Whatsoever
things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that
we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have
hope," (Rom. xv. 4). The inspired apostle, after enumerating a
number of events that occurred in the history of the Israelites^
says, " Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples,.
(or types, as it is in the margin) ; and they are written for our
admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come," (1 Cor.
X. 11). We can not, then, read the Old Testament as we read
the history of some ancient nation, with a feeling that it is all
past, and that it possesses no interest for ourselves ; but it has a
present value, speaking not less earnestly to our souls than it did
to those who lived and died thousRnds of years before we were
born. The abiding presence oi the Holy Ghost in the Scriptures
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 2^
secures for them all the authority and potency oi an immediate
revelation addressed directly to every reader.
Fourth. It is almost needless to add that the Bible must be
studied with a deep sense of our entire dependence for li^ht and
guidance upon the Spirit of God. "The natural man," or the
iiesh, or the Adam nature in a believer, is just as ignorant- and
helpless and perverted as the same nature in an unbeliever, and
it is as true of the natural man in the former as in the latter that
he "receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God : for they are
foolishness unto him : neither can he know them, because they
are spiritually discerned," (i Cor. ii." 14). But it is comforting to
hear our Lord saying concerning this Spirit to His followers^
" He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your
emembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you," (John xiv. 26).
gain He says in words we should never forget in connection
,ith the work ot the Spirit, " He shall testify of Me, "(John xv. 26. J
J.H.B.
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
BY D. L. MOODY.
" And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into t'.ie street that
was before the water-gate ; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book
of the law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel. And Ezra the
priest broug^ht the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that
could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. And he
read therein before the street that was before the water-gate from morning until
mid-day, before the men and the women, and those that could understand ; and the
ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.'' — Nehemiah viii. 1-3
The children of Israel had been in captivity for seventy years,
and now they had come back into their own land ; and the
description given in these verses is what we should call a Bible-
reading ; just getting the people together and reading the Word
of the Lord to them. And perhaps it would be a good thing if
we could have more meetings where the Word of God is read and
explained. It is better to hear God rather than man, and I be-
lieve we are living in a day when the Bible is neglected, although
we are living in a land of Bibles.
The children of Israel had been in a strange land, and God
wished them to understand His law. It says that they were
attentive to the law ; that is to say, they were just leaning for-
ward and drinking in the words that were read to them. You
have sometimes seen a nest of birds, and the mother comes with
a little worm to leed them, and in an instant every mouth is wide
open ; and in like manner every one of us ought to have our ears
wide open to catch the meaning of the Word of God when it is
read to us, and if there is anything we don't understand we ought
to go to the minister and have an enquiry meeting with him, and
ask him to explain it to us.
24 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
We read in the ninth verse, "For all the people wept when
they heard the words of the law. Then he said unto them, Go
your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions
unto them for whom nothing is prepared : for this day is holy unto
the Lord ; neither be ye sorry ; for the joy of the Lord is your
strength," What we want, now-a-days, brethren is a joyful
church. If we are in Babylon, with our harps hanging on the
willow trees and our heads bowed down, we are not likely to
succeed in winning souls to Christ. No ; it is when we are back
again on the resurrection ground that we may hope to succeed in
that. A backsliding church is a nuisance in the world. It is just
a stumbling-block, and nothing more. In the seventeenth verse
we read, " And all the congregation of them that were come
again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths ;
for since the days ol Joshua the son of Nun unto that day had not
the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness."
And there always will be great gladness when a backsliding
people come back to God.
The Word of God in the Heart. — When the Israelites
were going into Babylon, trodden down by their oppressors and
led away into a foreign land, we read in Jeremiah xx. 9. " Then
I said, I will not make mention ol Him, nor speak any more in
His name : but His word was in my heart as a burning fire shut
up in my bones, and I was weary with forebearing, and I could
not stay." Yes, it is a good thing to have the Word of God in
our hearts, so that it just burns within us, and we cannot hold our
peace. When the Psalmist said it was hidden in his heart, some
one has remarked that it was a good thing in a good place, for a
good purpose. We want the Word to burn right down into our
souls ; then a man cannot restrain himself, it begins to burn, so
that it would actually burn him up if he held his peace and did
not speak out. " Is not my Word like as a fire, saith the Lord,
and like a hammer that breaketh a rock in pieces ?" The Word
of God is the sword of the Spirit, and if you young converts want
to be used of God you must feed on His word. Your experience
may be very good and very profitable at the outset, and you may
help others by telling it to them ; but if you keep on doing nothing
else but telling your experience, it will soon become stale and un-
profitable, and people will weary -of hearing the same thing over
and over again. But when you have told how you have been
converted, the next thing is to feed on the Word. We are not
fountains ourselves, but the Word of God is the fountain. And ii
we feed on the Word, it will be so easy then to speak to others ;
and not only that, but we shall be growing all the while in grace,
and others will take notice of our walk and conversation.
Now, I never saw a useful Christian who was not a student of
the Bible. If a man neglects his Bible, he may pray and ask God
to use him in his work, but God cannot make use of him ; for
there is not much for the Holy Ghost to work upon. We must
have the Word itself, which is sharper than any two-edged sword,
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 2^
Now, if you read the sermon spoken by Moses before he left the
children of Israel, you will find it was just a rehearsal of what
G' 1 had done for them, and of their deliverance from the cruei
hai.ds ot Pharaoh ; of the destruction of their enemies in the Red
Sea, and their safe conduct through the wilderness ; and yet I do
not suppose there was a boy in the camp who could not have
told it ten times over. And you will find that Joshua did the
same ; and when Peter stood up on the day of Pentecost, the
Spirit of the Lord was in him, and he went on quoting Scripture
to the people, and that was the arrow that went down into
their souls. Then, again, w^hat did the devout and martyred
Stephen do but just rehearse and expound the Scriptures irom the
time of Abraham downwards ?
Victory by the Word. — People are constantly saying, We
want something new ; some new doctrine, some new idea. Depend
upon it, my friends, ii you get tired of the Word oi God, and it
becomes wearisome to you — you are out oi communion with Him.
What you want is some one who will untold and expound the
Scriptures to you. We cannot overcome Satan witt our ieelings.
The reason why some people have such bitter experience is, they
try to overcome the devil by their ieelings and experiences. Christ
overcame Satan by the Word. He simply said : "It is written ;"
and a second time, " It is written ;" and Satan came again and
tried to misquote the Scripture, but Christ said again, " It is
written," and that was the arrow that shot right into him, and
drove him away. The devil does not care a bit about our ieelings.
He can play on our ieelings just as a man can on a harp. He can
make our Ieelings good or bad ; he can take us up on the mountain
or down into the vallej^ ; and we can only vanquish him by the
Word, which is the sword ot the Spirit.
And then bear in mind there is no situation in life for which
you cannot find some w^ord of consolation in Scripture. It you
are in affliction there is a promise ior you ; if you are in adversity
and trial, there is a promise for you : in joy and sorrow, in health
and in sickness, in poverty or in riches, in every condition o± life,
God has a promise stored up in His Word for you.
Three Books every Christian Should Have. — I can imagine
some persons asking. How can I get to be in love with the Bible ?
Well, if you will only rouse yourselves to the study of it, and ask
God's assistance, He will assuredly help you. There are three
books which 1 think every Christian ought to possess. The first,
ol course, is the Bible. I believe in getting a good Bible, with a
good plain print. I have not much love tor those little Bibles you
have to hold up right under your nose to read the print ; and if
the church happens to be a little dark you cannot see the print :
but it becomes a mere jumble o± words. Yes, but some ol you
say you cannot carry a big Bible in your pocket. Very well, then
carry it under your arm ; and if you have to walk five miles you will
just be preaching a sermon five miles long. I have known a man
convicted by seeing another carrying his Bible under his arm.
20 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
You are not ashamed to carry hymn-books and prayer-books, and
the Bible is worth all the hymn-books and prayer-books in the
world put together. And if you get a good Bible you are likely
iw take better care of it. Suppose you pay thirty shillings lor a
good Bible, the older you grow the more precious it will become
to you. But be sure you don't get one so good that you will be
afraid to mark it. The next I would advise you to get Cruden's
Concordance, and a " Scripture text-book," not a " Birthday text-
book." These books will help you study the Word ol God with
profit. If you have not got them, get them to morrow, for every
Christian ought to have them.
Study Topically. — Then I find one ol the best ways to study
the Scriptures is to study them topically. I used at one time to
read so many chapters a day, and it I did not, I thought I was
getting cold and backsliding ; but mind you, if a man had asked
me two hours afterwards what I had read I could not tell him^
I had forgotten it nearly all. When I was a boy I used, among
other things, to hoe turnips on a farm, and I used to hoe them so-
badly, to get over so much ground, that at night I had to put down
a stick in the ground so as to know next morning where I had left
off. That was somewhat in the same fashion as running through
so many chapters every day. A man will say : *' Wife, did I read
that chapter .?" *' Well," says she, " I don't remember," and
neither of them can recollect, and perhaps he reads the same
chapter over and over again ; and they call that studying the
Bible. I don't think there is a book in the world we neglect so*
much as the Bible. Merely reading the Bible is no use at all
without we study it thoroughly, and hunt it through as it were
for some great truth. If a friend were to see me searching about
this building, and were to come up and say, " Moody, what are
you looking for? have you lost something?" and I were to say,
** No, I haven't lost anything, I'm not looking for anything par-
ticular," I fancy he would just let me go on by myself, and think
me very foolish. But if I were to say, " Yes, I have lost a sov-
ereign," why, then, I might expect him to help me to find it. Read
the Bible, my friends, as if you were seeking for something of
value. It is a good deal better to take a single chapter and spend
a month on it, than to read the Bible at random for a month.
Work Out Subjects. — I find some people now and then who-
boast that they have read the Bible through in so many month^.
Others read the Bible chapter by chapter, and get through it in a
year ; but I think it would be ahnost better to spend a year over
one chapter. If I were going into a court of justice, and wanted
to carry the jury with me, I would get every witness I could tO'
'■'^stiiy to the one point on which I wanted to convince the jury,
i would not get them to testify everything, but just on that one
thing ; and so it should be with the Scriptures. I io:.k up that
word "love," and I don't know how many weeks I spent in study-
ing the passages in which it occurs, till at last I couldn't hel^
loving people. I had been leedmg so long on love that I was
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 27
anxious to do everybody good that I came in contact with. Take
up grace, take up taith, take up assurance. Some people say, I
don't beUeve in assurance. I never knew anybody who read their
Bible but beheved in assurance. This book teaches nothing else.
Paul says — " I know in whom I have believed." Job says — " I
know that my Redeemer liveth." It is not, " I hope, I trust."
The best book on assurance was written by one called " John," at
the back part of the Bible. He wrote an epistle on assurance.
Sometimes you just get a word that will be a sort of key to the
epistle, and which unioids it. Now, if you turn to John xx. 31,
you will find it says — " These are written, that ye might believe
that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God ; and that believing ye
might have life through his name." Then if you turn to i John
V. 13 you will read thus : " These things have I written unto you
that believe on the name of the Son of God ; that ye may know-
that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of
the Son of God." That whole epistle is written on assurance. I
have no doubt John had found some people who doubted about
assurance, and doubted whether they were saved or not, and
he takes up his pen and says, " I will settle that question ;" and
he writes that last verse in the twentieth chapter of his gospel.
I have heard some people say it was not their privilege to know
that they were saved ; they had heard the minister say that no one
could know whether they were saved or not, and they took what
the minister said instead of what the Word of God said. Others
read the Bible to make it fit in and prove their favourite creed or
notions, and it it did not do so they would not read it. It has.
been well said, that they must not read the Bible by the blue light
of Presbyterianism, nor the red light of Methodism, nor the
violet light of Episcopalianism,butbythe light of the Spirit of God.
Now, if you will ju'.t take up your Bible and study assurance lor
a week you will soon see it is your privilege to know that you are
a child of God.
Feed on the Promises. — Then take another thing — the pro-
mises of God. Let a man feed for a month on the promises of
God, and he will not be talking about how poor he is. You
hear people say — " Oh, my leanness ! how lean I am !" My
friends, it is not their leanness, it is their laziness. If you would
only go from Genesis to Revelation, and see all the promises made
by God to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to the Jews and the
Gentiles, and to all his people everywhere ; if you were to spend
a month feeding on the precious promises of God, you wouldn't
be going about with your heads hanging down like bulrushes, com-
plaining how poor you are ; but you would lift up your heads with
confidence, and proclaim the riches of His grace, because you
couldn't help it. After the Chicago fire a man came up to me
and said in a sympathising tone, " I understand you lost every-
thing, Moody, in the Chicago fire." " Well, then," said I, " some
one has misinformed you." " Indeed ! Why I was certainly told
you had lost all." " No ; its a mistake," I said, "quite a mistake.'*
a8 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
** Have you got much left then ?" asked my friend. " Yes," I
repUed, " I have g'^t much more left than I lost, though I cannot
tell how much I have lost." "Well, I am glad of it. Moody; I did
not know you were that rich before the fire." " Yes," said I, " I
am a good deal richer than you could conceive j and hore is my
title-deed — ' He that overcometh shall inherit all things.'" Th^y
say the Rothschilds cannot tell how much they are worth, and
that's just my case. All things in the world are mine ; I am
joint-hieir with Jesus, the Son of God.
Then suppose you spend a month on " prayer," run through the
Scriptures on prayer ; why, then the Bible becomes a new book to
you. And then take up hope, and faith, ind grace, and feed on
them. I remember the first time I studied grace I got so full of it
that I stopped every man and woman I met, and told them how-
God loved them. When Christ came with His message of grace
to the Jews the bottles would not hold ; it burst the bottles, and
began to flow on to the Gentiles all around. And then they got
.angry with Him, and sought to put Him to death. You may pray
for the blessing, but if you neglect your Bible you won't get it.
Study One Book at a Time. — Then another way is to study
one book at a time. If you take Genesis, it is the seed-plant of
the whole Bible; it tells us of life, death, resurrection ; it involves
all the rest of the Bible. Or take iust one w:rd that runs through
Si book. Some time ago I was wonderfully blessed by taking the
seven blessings of the Revelation. If God did not wish us to
understand the Revelation He would not have given it us at all.
A good many say it is so dark and mysterious common readers
-cannot understand it. Let us only keep digging away at it, and
it will unfold itself by-and-by. Some one says it is the only book
in the Bible that tells about the devil being chained ; and as the
devil knows that he goes up and down Christendom, and says,
^' It's no use your reading your Revelation ; j'-ou cannot understand
the book ; it's too hard for you." The fact is he dosen't want you
to understand about his own defeat. Just look at the blessings it
contains. In chapter xxii. 14, " Blessed are they that do Hia
commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and
may enter in through the gates into the city ;" chapter xvi. 15,
*' Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth His garments;" chapter
XX. 7, " Blessed is he that keepeth the saying of the prophecy of
this book."
Then there is a blessing on them that' are kept from the world.
We do not belong to the world, but belong to the new creation.
God has taken us out of the old and put us in the new, and there-
lore we keep ourselves from the world. '' Blessed are those that
die in the Lord ; for they shall rest from their labors." " Blessed
are they that have part in the first resurrection ; for on such the
second death hath no power ; and they shall live and reign with
Christ a thousand years." " Blessed are they that are called to
the marriage supper of the Lamb." Or you may take the eight
*' overcomes" of Revelation, and you -will get wonderfully blessed
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGb. 29
vith them. They take you right up to heaven ; you climb by
Jiem fight up to the throne of God.
Assurance. — There is that word " know" I mentioned just now..
It occurs six times in i John iii. In the fifth verse it says : " And
ye know that He was manifest to take away our sins ; and in Him
_s no sin." The next is the nineteenth verse : '' Hereby we know
that we are of the truth." Some people tell us that it doesn't
make any difference ; that a lie is as good as the truth if we are
only sincere. Why, no doubt those false prophets on mount
Carmel were sincere ; but John says, " Hereby we know that we
are of the truth.'' Then, in tHe fourteenth verse : " We know that
we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren."
There's assurance for you. Then, in the fifteenth verse: " He that
hateth his brother is a murderer ; and ye know that no murderer
hath eternal life abiding in him." The Christian is not lull of
jealousy, envy, hatred, and malice ; but he is full of " love, joy,,
peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness,- faith, meekness, tem-
perance." These are the fruits I shall bear if I have got Christ in
me. Yes, that fifth chapter of Galatians will soon tell us if we
have got the right kind of fruit. Make the tree right, and you
will soon have the right fruit. Then, in the twenty-fourth verse :
" He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in
him. And hereby we ^fzow that He abideth in us,.by the spirit
which He hath given us." Then, in the second verse : *' Beloved,
now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we
shall be ; but ^ve know that when He shall appear we shall belike
Him ; for we shall see Him as He is." There's assurance for you
again ! In that one chapter six assurances. Every truth I get^
my friends, seems to make me lighter and lighter, till I expect to
fly away by-and-by. I heard Mr. Aitken one day, and he told Ub
about a boy who had some gas-bags fastened round him, and they
were so light that when he came to a hedge or a ditch he had only
just to touch the bags and away they carried him right over. And
it is just the same when we read the Bible, it makes us lighter and
lighter, and we leap over the obstacles in our way. The truth
makes us freer and freer. A brother in the Lord gave me some
key-notes this week. He said Peter wrote about hope, "when the
chief Shepherd shall appear;" the key-note of Paul's writing,
appeared to be ot faith, and of John's love. " Faith, hope, and
charity ;" these were the three characteristics of the three men —
the key-note to the whole of their teachings.
The Gospel of John. — Then, again, I have been greatly blessed
by going thpough the " believings" oi John. As I said before, he
wrote his gospel that we might believe. All through it is " believe^
believe, believe." If you want to persuade a man that Christ is
the Son of God, John is the gospel for him. Take him right into
and through the gospel of John. Matthew was a Jew, and he
writes of Christ as a Jew — as the Son of David coming to take
His throne. He commences with Abraham, and he treats oi the
kingdom all the way down to Christ. Mark begins with Malachi,
30 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
He takes it up where the Old Testament left off, and speaks of
Christ as a servant coming to do the will of God. Luke begins
with Zacharias. He takes up the human side and speaks of Him
as a physician, healing the sick, making the lame to walk, and
giving sight to the blind. But John brings Him out of the bosom
of the Father. He goes beyond Malachi, beyond Abraham, be-
yond Adam — away beyond the morning stars, and brings Him
out of the Father's bosom, and with one stroke of the pen settles
the question of Unitarianism for ever. John was no Unitarian :
every word he wrote was against it. He says the Son of God
was manifest in the flesh. Go through John's Gospel, and study
the " believes," the '• verilys," the ** I ams," and go through the
Bible in that way, and it becomes a new book to you.
Make Marginal Notes. — Another plan, and a good one,
too, is when a preacher gives out a text just take and mark it, and
as he goes on preaching, iust put a few words in the margin, key-
words that shall bring back the whole sermon again. By that
plan of making a few marginal notes, I can remember sermons I
heard years and years ago. Every man ought to take down some
of the preacher's words and ideas, and go into some lane or alley
and preach them out again to others. We ought to have four ears,
two for ourselves and two for other people. Then, if you are in a
new town, and have nothing else to say, jump up and say, " I
heard some one say so-and-so," and they will always be glad to
hear your if you give them heavenly food. The world is perishing
for lack of it.
Little and Wise. — Some time ago, about eight years, I
think, I heard an Englishman in Chicago preach from a curious
text (Proverbs xxx. 24): " There be four things which are little
upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise." "Well," said I to
myself, " what will you make of these little things ? I have seen
them a good many times." Then he went on reading, " The ants
are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer."
He said God's people were like the ant. " Well," I said, " I have
seen a good many of them, but I never saw one like me." They
were like the ants, he said, because they were laying up treasure
in heaven, and preparing for the future ; but the world rushed
madly on, and forgot all about God's command to lay up for our-
selves incorruptible treasures. " The conies are but a feeble folk,
yet make they their houses in the rocks." He said the conies were
very weak things ; if you were to throw a stick at one of them you
would kill it : but they were vejy wise, for they built their houses
in the rocks, and where they are out of harm's way. And God's
people are very wise, although very feeble, for they build on the
Rock of Ages, and that Rock is Christ. " Well," I said, " I am
certainly like the conies." Then came the next verse: "The
locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them in bands ;" and
I wondered what he was going to make of that. Now God's people,
he said, had no king down here ; the world said, " Caesar is our
king ;" but he was not our king, our king was the Lord of hosts.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 3I
The locusts went out by bands, so did God's people ; here was a
Presbyterian band, here an Episcopalian band, here a Methodist
band, and so on ; but by-and-by the great King would come and
catch up all those separate bands and they would all be one, one
'fold and one shepherd. And when 1 heard that explanation I said,
"** I would like to be the locusts." I have got so sick, my friends,
of this miserable denominationalism, I wish it could all be swept
away. Well, he went on again. " The spider taketh hold with
her hands, and is in king's palaces." , Well, when he got to the
spider, I said, " I don't like that at all, and don't like the idea of
being compared to a spider." *' But," he said, " if you went into
a king's palace there was the spider hanging on his gossamer web,
and looking down with scorn and contempt on the gilded saloon ;
he was laying hold of things above. And so every child oi God
ought to be like the spider, and lay hold of the unseen things ol God."
*'And so," he said, "you see,my brethren, we who are God's people
are like the ants, the conies, the locusts, and the spider, little things,
but exceeding wise." I iust put that down, my friends, and the
recollection of it does me as murh good this morning as when I
first heard it.
Now, I have carried this Biole with me a good many years. It
is worth more to me than all the Bibles in this place, and I will
tell you why ; because I have got so many passages marked in it,
and if I am called upon to speak at any time I am ready. I have
got these little words in the margin, and they are a sermon to me.
Whether I speak about faith, hope, charity, assurance, or any
subject whatever, it all comes back to me ; and however unexpec-
tedly I am called upon to preach, I am always ready. Ever}'- child
of God ought to be like a soldier, and always hold himself in
readiness. If the Queen's arm}^ were ordered to India to-morrow,
the soldier is ready for the iourney ; but we can't be ready if we
don't study the Bible. So whenever you hear a good thing iust
put it down, because if it's good for you it will be good for some-
body else ; and we should pass the coin of heaven round just as we
do the sovereigns and other current coin of the realm.
Job, the Key to the Bible. — In the year 1872 an Englishman
remarked to me ; " Mr. Moody, did you ever notice this, that the
book of Job is the key to the whole Bible ; if you understand Job
you will understand the entire Bible ?" " No," I said, " I don't
understand that. Job the key to the whole Bible ! How do you
make that out ?" He said, " I divide Job into seven heads. You
know ministers generally have a great many heads to their sermons.
The first head is : A perfect man untried. That's what God said
about Job ; that's Adam in Eden. He was perfect when God put
him there. The second head is ; Tried by adversity; and Job fell
as Adam fell in Eden. The third head is: The wisdom of the world.
The world tries to restore Job ; the three wise men came to help
Job. That was the wisdom of the world centred in those three
men." " You cannot," said he, "find any such eloquent language
or wisdom anywhere in any part of the world as these three men
32 NOTTT.S FOR BIBLE READINGS.
had ; but they did not know anything about grace, and could not
therefore help Job." And that's just what men are trying to do^
and the result is they fail. Take the scientific men of our day who
talk against the Bible. Have they made the world any better ?
The wisdom of man never made man any better. These three men
did not help Job, but they made him worse. Some one has said
the first man took him and gave him a good pull, and then the
second and third did the same, and the three of them had three
good pulls at Job, and then flat down they fell. Yes, my friends,,
and a good many men fall when they get into an argument. Very
unprofitable things these arguments are. Job could stand anything
better than those three men ; he could even have stood a scolding
wife better than his three friends. " Then in the fourth place,"
said he, " in comes the Daysman," that is Christ. Then in the
filth place, God speaks^ and in the sixth, Job learns his lesson. *' I
have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear ; but now mine eye
secth Thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and
ashes. And then down came Job flat on the dunghill. '* I abhor,
myself," and down he went in the dust ; and had learnt his lesson.
*' And the seventh head is this, ihdit God restores him.'' Thank
God, my friends, it is so with us, and our last state is better than
our first.
I would rather be a resurrected man with Christ than be Adam
in Eden without Christ. Adam might have been in Eden ten
thousand years, and the devil might have come in and he might
have fallen. But now Satan cannot get at us, so that we are
better than Adam was in Eden. God came down and gave man an
earthly kingdom, and Satan came and said, *' I will mar the work
ol God and destroy it." But God came down again and said, " I
will lift up Adam and all his sons higher, even unto the heavens,
and will break the power of Satan ;" and God kept His promise,
when he gave His Son to die for us. A friend of mine said to me»
" Look here. Moody, God gave to Job double of everything." He
would not admit that Job had lost his children. He had taken them
to heaven, and He gave him ten moae. So Job had ten in heaven
and ten on earth — a goodly family. So when our children are
taken from us they are not lost to us, but are merely gone before.
I have not time to say more, but in conclusion I would advise all
young converts to keep in the company as much as they can o\
more experienced Christians. I like to keep in the society of those
who know more than I do, and I never lose a chance of getting
all I can out of them. Study the Bible carefully and prayerfully,
ask of others what this passage means and what that passage
means, and when you have become practically acquainted with
the great truths it contains, you will have less to fear from the
world, the flesh, and the devil.
HOW TO READ THE BIBLE.
BY D. L. MOODY.
In order to understand the Bible we have to study it carefully.
If we will go to the Word of God and be willing to be taught by
the Holy Ghost, God will teach us, and will unfold his blessed
truths to us.
There are three books that every Christian ought to have if he
cannot'have but three. The first is a Bible — one with good plain
print that you can easily read, not so good that you are afraid to
mark it. I am sick of these little fine types. It is a good thing
to get a good-sized Bible, because you will grow old by-and-by.
and your sight may grow poor, and you wont want to give up the
one you have been used to reading after it has come tc
seem like a sort of life-long companion. The next book to eet
is *' Cruden's Concordance." You cannot get on very well in
Bible study without that. There is another book printed in this
country by the American Tract Society called the " Bible Text-
Book." It was brought out first in London. These three books
will be a wonderful help to you in studying the Word of God.
For a number of years I have made a rule not to read any book
that does not help me to understand the Bible. I am a greater
slave to that book than any man is to strong drink, and I am sure
it does me a great deal more good. I think I have got the key to
the study of the Bible. Take it topically ! Take " Love," lor
instance, and spend a month in searching what the Bible says
about love, from Genesis to Revelation. Thus you will learn to
love everybody, whether they love you or not. In the same way
take " Grace," *' Faith," *' Assurance," " Heaven," and so on.
When you read your Bible, be sure you hunt for something. Read
the same chapter over and over again till you understand it. I
would add — make yourself thoroughly familiar with St. Paul's
Epistles. They are the key to all the Holy Scriptures. Get a
reference Bible, and you will find the best commentary in the mar-
gin.
Take up one word in a book, such as the " believes''' in St. John.
Every chapter but two speaks of believing. Look up the nineteen
personal interviews with Christ. Take the conversions of the
Bible: the seven '' hlesseds'" and ^'-overcomes'''' of Revelation. See
what I John 3 says about " assurance^''' and the six things worth
knowing. Take up the five '■'■precious'''' things of Peter, the ^'verilys'*
oi John, the seven *' walks'' of Ephesians, the four *' much mores'*
of Rom. 4, the two ^' receiveds" of John i, the seven ^^ hearts" in
Prov. 23, and especially an eighth, the ^^ loo kings" the ^* lockings
back," the " beholds" of the Bible.
Study the word in God's presence, with the help of the asked-
34 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS
I . .
for Spirit of God. If you have sin upon your conscience, it will
hinder your understanding. Remember the blood. The light
which shines from Calvary is the light that unfolds the Scriptures.
Additional Suggestions. — i. Have for constant use a portable
Reference Bible. 2. Carry a Bible or Testament with you. 3. Don't
be afraid of marking it, or making notes on the margin: promises,
exhortations, warnings to Christians, and invitations to the unsaved.
4. Do not be satisfied with simply reading a chapter, but study the
meaning of at least one verse every day. 5. Study so as to ascer-
tain the whole truth contained in a single incident or miracle : when
and why written, how it applies to yourself, and how to use it for
others. 6. Study to know for what, and to whom each book of the
Bible was written. Study the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles
together, also Leviticus and Hebrews, etc. 7. Beheve in the
Bible as God's revelation to you, and act accordingly. 8. Learn at
least one verse of Scripture each day. Verses from memory will
be wonderfully useful in your daily life and work. See Josh. i. 8 ;
Psa. cxix. II. 9. Study how to use the Bible so as to " walk with
God" and lead others to Christ. 10. Set apart at least fifteen
minutes each day for studying it ; this little Vv^ill be grand in re-
sult, and never be regretted. 11. Read the Book as if it were
written for yourself. 12. Always ask God to help you to under-
stand it, and. then expect that He will. 13. Have Cruden's Con-
cordance and a Bible Text-book at hand ; also in all cases refer to
parallel passages and margin notes, and take time to think.
HOW TO READ THE BIBLE.
BY REV. J. E. SAMPSON.
I have hope of the worst man, as long as he will read his Bible.
I feel sure he will turn to God some day. I am full of fear for
the best man, if he neglects his Bible. He is almost certain to
fall before the enemy. Amid these last day perils, there is no
safeguard but in the Word of God.
Two men of God have lately given good advice about studying
the Bible. Mr. Moody says, "For a number of years, I have
made it a rule not to read any book that does not helgp me to un-
derstand the Bible. I am a greater slave to that book than any
man is to strong drink, and I am sure it does me a deal more
good. Every Christian ought to have a good Bible — not so good
that you are afraid to m.ark it — and a Concordance. I think I
have got the key to the study of the Bible. Take it topically.
Take Love, for instance, and spend a month in searching what
the Bible says about love, from Genesis to Revelation. Then
you will love everybody whether they love you or not. In the
same way take Grace, Faith, Assurance, Heaven, and so on.
When you read your Bible, be sure you hunt for something.
Spend six months studyinr^- Genesis : it is the seed-plant of the
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 35
Bible. Read the same chapter over and over again, till you un-
derstand it. I would add — make j^ourself thoroughly familiar
with St. Paul's Epistles. They are the key to all the Holy Scrip-
ture. Do not think you would do better with a Commentary.
They are useful to consult sometimes. But it is better lor you to
be without one, than that you should depend on one. Get a
Reference Bible, and you will find the best commentary in the
margin.
" Take up one word in a book, such as the believes in St. John.
Every chapter but two speaks of believing. Look up the nine-
teen personal interviews with Christ. Take the conversions of
the Bible : seven hlesseds and overcnmes of Revelation. See
what I John iii. says about Assurance, and the six things worth
h Rowing . Take up the five precious things of Peter, the verily s
of John, the seven walks of Ephesians, the five much mores of
Rom. v., the two receiveds ol John i., the seven hearts in Prov.
xxiii. and especially an eighth, the lookings, the lookings lack,
the Beholds, of the Bible. If we know our Bibles, Satan. will not
have much power over us."
Mr. MuUer, of Bristol, who has obtained a good report through
faith suggests this plan. *' Begin the Old Testament and read a
portion. The next time you read, begin the New in the same
way. .The next time, a portion of the Old beginning where you
left off before ; and next time again, a portion of the New. Thus
you will soon get through the New ; then begin it again ; and so
with the Old — the result will be, you will increasmgly love the
Word of God. I have tried this plan for forty-six years, and
though I have read nearly one hundred times the whole oi the
Blessed Word of God, I never tire of it. The more I read it the
more precious it becomes to my heart, the more delight still I
take in reading it. It is always a new book to me, when I begin
it again from the beginning. Bible reading is the great means of
flourishing the soul. If you neglect this, you will never make
much progress. Do not be discouraged if, on you first reading,
you do not understand. By little and little you will learn niore."
It is re.markable that two such mighty men of faith should have
given such similar and striking testimony to the necessity and
happiness of pondering in the Word of God.
I venture to suggest further the plan which for some years 1
have found very profitable. It is the adoption of two methods.
First, continue reading straight on through the Bible from begin-
ning to the end. About two pages a day, in an ordinary sized
Bible, will bring you through in a year. But read more than
this, if you have time ; and as years roll by you will be tempted
to read more and more. In this way you will get a general
knowledge of the entire Scriptures. You will notice the scope
and main object of each book. You will see that there is a Divine
order in the arrangement of the books. Try as you go on, to see
the chief predominating topic of each book ; and observe how the
" New Testament lies hid in the Old, and the Old Testament lies
< -^en in the New."
36 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Then, at the same time, have in hand some one book for special
study and searching. It may be well to take a book in the New
Testament for this more particular study, while you are reading
the Old Testament ; take, for example, one of St. Paul's Epistles.
Read it through several times, till you see the outline of it, and
have got hold of the line of thought and |the steps of argument,
or the main divisions of the book. Do not begrudge time spent
reading, in this way, over and over again. It is time well spent.
Then, when you have grasped the general drift and subject of the
book, begin at the first chapter, and take it verse by verse, and
word by word, searching out parallel texts and words in the Old
Testament and the New, and observing how the Bible in one part
explains the Bible in another.
By pursuing these methods you will be surprised how your in-
terest in the Scripture) and love for its pages will increase.
You will make it the centre of all your reading, and nothing will
be thought worthy of your study which does not in some way or
other bear upon it.
It is well to have some fixed time in the day for Bible reading.
What is left to be done at any time is usually neve^ done at all.
Keep to your time as regularly as you can, but if on any occasion
you are not able to do so, do not condemn yourself as if you had
sinned.
Always pray before you read. Ask God to be your teacher, to
enlighten the eyes of your heart by his Holy Spirit. If Bezaleel
needed to be " filled with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in un-
derstanding, and in knowledge," that he might know how to con-
struct the material tabernacle, how much more do we need ttie
^ fulness of the same Holj^ Spirit, that we may understand the
** wondrous things" of the great temple of revealed truth.
Be sure you read your Bible with faith, believing every word.
Have no thoughts or opinions of your own, but like a little child
receive the Word of God in simple trust. Let no feeling of your
own unworthiness make j^ou stagger at the rich lulness and free-
ness of God's promises. Often ask yourself as you read, Am I be-
lieving this ? Remember that " these are the true sayings of
God." " The Scripture cannot be broken." Never doubt your
heavenly Father's word, i John v. 10.
Let your object in knowing the Word of God be, that you may
do the will of God. If you have sin upon your conscience it will
hinder your understanding. Live out faithfully in your daily life
all you learn. Think of the connection between the laying aside
and the lay i?ig apart with the desiring and receiving in i Pet. ii. i,
2, and Jam. i. 21. No one who allows sin in his life can know the
truth in his heart.
It is good sometimes to sit or kneel before God, and meditate
and. ponder over some portion of the Word of Truth. Speak
with God about it ; praise him for it ; ask him to fulfil it all in
you.^ Remember that in prayer, you are speaking to God ; that
in reading the Bible, God is speaking to you. Let your listening:
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 37
heart say, Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth. Pause, and
think over some blessed text, and allow your soul to drink in all
its rich and precious meaning. When the Psalmist speaks of the
downward course of the wicked, the contrast he draws between
them and the righteous man is very striking — *' But," he says,
*' his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he
meditate day and night."
Study the Word in God's presence. Remember the blood.
The light which shines from Calvary is the light which unfolds
the Scriptures. A stain upon your conscience will be like a speck
upon your eye. If you are indeed a child of God, it will not only
be exquisite pain to you ; it will almost blind you. Bring it to
the blood to be cleansed. Then, walking in the truth, you will be
able to understand the truth, and the truth will sanctify you.
I earnestly urge you to make Bible-reading your daily habit.
Let it be a fixed principle with you that you need " the words of
his mouth" for your soul's nourishment and health, " more than
your necessary food" for your body. I have seen many a young
Christian fall away for lack of this. You have found forgiveness,
young believer, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ ; and
you are happy, supremely happy. But forgiveness, blessed as it
is,' is not food. And if you have no food you will have no strength.
You will hunger. And the hungr}^ will eat anything. If you do
not go on, applying yourself to the careful reading of your Bible,
increasing in the knowledge of Christ, your famished soul, will
readily eat of the world's dainties, and Satan will not be slow to
spread them temptingly before you. But if you are nourished by
the hidden manna ; if, searching the Scriptures, your soul is filled
with the knowledge and love of Christ Jesus your Lord, you will
" never hunger," you will have no heart for the world's allure-
ments. " A full soul loatheth even an honeycomb."
Christian, if you would stand before the enemy, if you would
walk humbly and happily with your God, if you would be useful
in the Lord's vineyard, search the Scriptures daily and diligently.
^' All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable,
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteous-
ness ; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished
unto all good works."
THE READING OF THE BIBLE.
BY PASTOR TH. MONOD.
The reading of the Bible should have the first place in our re-
ligious employments, for it is upon the Word of God that our
faith is founded. We recognize this, but too often we only read
it as a duty. We say to ourselves : " We must read a chapter
■every morning, and two chapters on Sunday, it is a positive duty ;
38 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
we must put aside the interesting book which we have begun, and
open our Bible," and we do it.
We shall not make much progress thus. The other day in read-
ing Psalm i. for the hundredth time, I was struck for the first
time with what is there stated concerning the Word of God..
David does not say in Psalm i. " Blessed is the man who reads
this Word day and night." No, but he says, " Blessed is the
man whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law doth
he meditate day and night." He takes pleasure in it, it interests
him more than the daily paper, or the book which has just come
out. It is more full of life and freshness to him ; it is more real^
he feels the beauties of it more. And if he meditates in it, it is
because he takes pleasure in it. At our meetings in Paris, I heard
a comparison which struck me. It was said : Suppose a young
lady had read a book, of poetry if you like, or some other book.
She had been interested in it, touched more or less by it, and she
replaced it in her librarj^ But not long after the author of this
book came to her parent's house ; he made her acquaintance, their
relations became more intimate, and finally she was betrothed to
this author. Now she takes up his book, the same book. Oh ! in
what a different spirit she reads it again. It is a completely new
book. There are, however, the same sentences. Yes ! but in
each word she seeks to know something of the thought, character^
and heart of him whom she loves, and who lov^es her. No, it will
be no more the same book. Well, my dear friends, what we want
is to take the Bible and say to ourselves, " This is the book of
Him whom I love, and who Icves me ; the book which will teach
me something more about His thoughts. His work, what He has
done, and what he has promised to do. This is the book which
is going to open to me the heart of my Saviour, God.
Believe me, it will be thus another book, and a book of which a
lew lines will do more good than whole pages and chapters, when
we only read them as a matter of conscience, as a duty, and in fact
to be able to say, ** It is done, I have read my chapter."
Therefore let us ask God that He may grant us to take pleasure
in His law. There is no other way to delight in God's law than
to love Himself. And it is impossible to remain in the fa^th and
love of God, if one is not employed in His service.
In short we must always return to the same point. We must
give ourselves to God just as we are. And if that is indeed what
we wish, by the goodness of God we may be sure he will grant it
to us ; and then we shall dwell in His love, and we also shall be
imong those who delight to meditate in His Word day and night.
THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE.
First Genesis, and Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers,
Deut'ronomy, and Joshua, and Judges too, and Ruth ,
Then Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles, and Ezra, Nehemiah,
And Esther, Job, and David's Psalms are in God's Book of Truth»
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 39
The wise king's Proverbs follow next, and then Ecclesiastes;
The song of Solomon precedes Isaiah's glorious strain ;
Then Jeremiah, prophet sad, weeps forth his lamentations ;
Ezekiel and IDaniel foretell Messiah's reign.
Hosea, Joel, Amos next, the book of Obadiah,
And Jonah, Micah, Nahum too, then Habakkuk appears ;
And Zephaniah, Haggai, the prophet Zechariah ;
And Malachi completes the roll ere Christ, four hundred years.
The Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, — the Acts of the Apostles ;
Then Romans, and Corinthians, Galatians next we note ;
Ephesians, and Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians :
St. Paul these nine Epistles to the early churches wrote.
Next Timothy and Titus come, Philemon and the Hebrews ;
Then James ; and Peter's letters tell of " precious" things above :
John's three Epistles ; Jude ; and last, John's wondrous Revelation,
The " Volume of the Book " complete, God's blessed Book of Love I
T. B. B.
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
BY DR. STUART ROBINSON, OF LOUISVILLE, KY.
This question refers not to any external methods of scriptural
study, but to the proper conception of such study as a means of
that Christian self-culture which is becoming prominent among
the aims of Young Men's Christian Associations. It is natural
for Christian young men, who have already some spiritual insight
into the Scriptures, to inquire how shall we most successfully de-
rive from them spiritual culture and meetness for the great work
of bringing souls to Christ. Just this question has sprung from
and represents that grand new conception of the Young Men's
Christian Association known as the " Bible Reading." In answer
ing this inquiry I offer a few suggestions or a series of what you
may consider clues to the spiritual significance of the Bible. And
these are taken from the Scriptures themselves, for in them the
Holy Ghost gives the instruction we need on this subject : (i) To
obtain this spiritual improvement we must treat these sacred
pages as the word of God. The Holy Spirit declares *' All scrip-
ture is given by inspiration of God." It is not primarily the
words of Moses, prophets, evangelists and apostles. For hundreds
of times these writers declare it is not their word, but " the word
of the Lord came unto me," — *' thus saith the Lord." Yes, *' all
scripture is by inspiration," Old Testament and ISIew alike. Not
only the evangelists record the words of Jesus Incarnate, but to
the apostles Jesus declared " the Holy Ghost shall teach you what
you ought to say." " He shall bring all things to your remem-
brance." " He shall take of mine and shall show it unto you."
Both Jesus and his apostles declared that " holy men of old spake
as they were moved of the Holy Ghost." Nay, an apostle was
inspired of the Holy Ghost to say that it was "the spirit of Christ''
4.0 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
in these prophets that did prophecy. So that in every page it is
*' Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, to-day and forever," that is
speaking. Not only that He once spoke these things, but is now
speaking them to every soul that comes asking at the holy oracle.
True, to the eye of sense there is little of glory in this homely
and solitary book with its divisions of a!juthors, chapters and verses.
Bat faith recognizes the fact that to make this holy record, the
chariot of heaven made many a visit to earth ; that the Almighty
made bare his arm to do many a wonder, compelling men to heed
these utterances ; that the gleaming finger of Omnipotence beck-
oned many a signal to arrest men's attention — yea, that Nature
herself often arose from her throne in reverent awe at the voice of
her glorious Lord, and dropped her sceptre as He worked his
signs and v/onders to attest His word.
The soul that by laith apprehends something of its transcendent
di nity and majesty in origin and aim, will leel the need of care-
ful preparation of heart. Such an one will hear a voice command-
ing, ' put oft the shoes from thy feet, for the place whereon thou
standest is holy ground." When the study of the scriptures be-
comes thus a reverent act oi worship, there is realized that for
which the Psalmist prayed '' open thou mine eyes, that I may be-
hold wondrous things out oi thy law." The study oi scripture
then affords something more than a mere intellectual exercise ;
the spiritual man is strengthened and refreshed.
(2.) But while thus conceived ol in their divine majesty, the
scriptures are to be interpreted in their obvious sense. For it is
the teaching of the Holy Spirit in the scriptures that they are the
utteiances of God to men. While the Bible is a divine book, it
is yet the most human of books. It is God speaking, but speak-
ing to our finite minds. While its topics oi thought are lofty be-
yc jid all the topics of human learning and science, the reverent
student of the Word, though unlearned, may master that which
" makes wise unto salvation." It deals not in terms 01 scientific
theology, but uses language current among the people, and is
found to change its fashion of thought and expression with the
changes oi the fashions of thought and expression in successive
civilizations for 4,000 years.
(3.) The Bible is the most human of books in revealing man to
himselt. Its grand idea is, that we need not merely a revelation
of God but of man's nature as well. Hence this revelation con-
nected itseli with the history oi map for five thousand years, and
developed itself through the ever- varying phases of humanity. It
records not simply utterances oi God speaking from Heaven to
man^ but the utterances also oi the human soul answering back
to the voice of God ; now in cries of mysterious terror ; now in
shouts of defiant impenitency; now in penetential wailing for sin ;
now in the joyous cries of child-like faith and trust. This book
is no divine monologue, but an amazing dialogue of the ages be-
tween earth and heaven. It records both how God spoke and
how man responded, or rather how God is ever speaking and how
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
41
man is ever answering. And thus while it reveals God in His in-
finite mysteries that we may understand Him, it no less fully
reveals man in the dreadful mysteries of his nature that he may
understand himself. Where, in classic tragedy, ancient or modern,
is there any painting of human nature comparable to that in the
Scripture ? With a few touches Pharaoh stands before us far
more distinctly than the Dido of Virgil, the Medea of Euripides,
or the Lady Macbeth of Shakespeare.
As you study the human side of this book, are you not ready to
•say, like the woman at Jacob's Well, " Come, see a man who told
me all things that ever I did." While, therefore, we come reverent-
ly to study the awful mystery of God the Saviour, we come hum-
bly to learn also the deceitfulness and depravity of our soul— our
guilt, helplessness, hopelessness, and godlessness, till infinite love
interposes for us. The study of the Scriptures is a failure ii it
does not produce penitence for sin and faith in the Sin-bearer.
Such study the Holy Ghost uses for awakening the soul to peni-
tence and inspiring faith that is *' unto salvation." Indeed, such
study can be inspired only by the Holy Ghost. Hence meditation
•should be accompanied by the earnest supplication, " open thou
mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law ;"
" sanctify me through thy truth — thy word is truth."
(4.) With all its variety of era, civilization and authorship, the
Bible is a hook of one idea. The apostle who did not shun to de-
clare the whole counsel of God, sums up that whole counsel in
two words: "Christ crucified." A most fruitful source of error
is in not distinguishing between the religion of nature gathered
from reason and the works of God, and the religion of Christ re-
vealed in this book. The former, combining with the conscious
instincts of man, demonstrates him a sinner doomed to death.
The latter shows the sinner how he may stand guiltless before
God by means of an infinite substitute, Christ crucified. To ex-
pound the relation of the substitute to God on the one hand, and
to man, the sinner, on the other, is the one idea of the book. I
am told simply to take that substitution made by Him for me,
and put it between me and the Judge, and He cannot see my sin,
But men get their ideas from natural religion, and teach that you
must be good. To the question : " What must I do to be saved ?"
all false gospels say: "Do something," "go and perform the
ritual," "go into the true church," " go through the ordinances of
baptism and extreme unction," " go and be baptized." But Christ
answered, "there is nothing to do. 'This is the work of God,
that ye believe in him whom he hath sent.'" As I sometimes tell
my Unitarian friends, your religion is very good in itself, if you
would only not call it Christianity or the gospel and thereby im-
pose upon the people a mere religion of nature for the religion of
Christ the Saviour. Your religion tells me that if I behave my-
self God will be good to me. That is no " good news,'" for I knew
it before. Nature taught me that, as one of the primary instincts
of my moral nature. But the trouble is' I have not behaved my-
42 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
self, and 1 want now to know how such a sinner can stand ac-
ceptably before God. This is what the gospel comes to tell me*
You steal the gospel brand and trade-mark and affix it to your
natural religion, manufacturing therefrom a spurious imitation of
the waters of life. And the structure of this revealed system of
theology is not such as ours, who construct our system as we do
a house, laying beam upon beam. God constructs His system of
theology as he does the living oak of the forest. He plants the
germinal acorn among the clods of a wasted Eden, and it grows
and expands parallel with the germ of the race till the fulness of
time> when under its mighty boughs all nations may have shelter.
Each successive revelation is an expansion of the revelation be-
fore it, till all is closed up with that great seal, written all over
with curses against him who shall add or take away a syllable
irom what has been said in all the foregoing books of the revela-
tion. That it means to cover all the foregoing books is evident
irom the fact that each of the foregoing revelations from the
Pentateuch onward calls for something to follow. But this last
book closes up all with a great seal.
It you examine the gospel germ, in the Eden revelation " I will
put enmity between thee and the woman and between thy seed
and her seed. It shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his
heel," you will find in it the elements of all the great doctrines oi
salvation subsequently revealed. Thus :
1. The promised Redeemer and Restorer of the race is to be
man, since He is to be the seed of the woman.
2. He is to be more than man and greater than Satan, for He
is to be the conqueror of man's conqueror He must therefore be
Divine.
3. Man's redemption shall involve a new nature, for it shall be
at enmity with the Satan nature to which man has now become
subject.
4. This new nature is to be a regeneration by Divine power, for
the declaration is " / (Jehovah) will put enmity,'' etc.
5. This redemption is to be accomplished by vicarious suffering
— since the Redeemer is to suffer the excruciating torture of the
bruising of his heel in the work of recovery.
6. This redemption is to involve the ultimate triumph of the
woman's seed, and therefore involves a triumph over death, and
a resurrection and restoration of humanity to its original estate —
the union of a spiritual nature with a physical in complete blessed-
ness as before the fall.
This is the germinal gospel, and the purpose of all the succeed-
ing revelations recorded in the book is the fuller expression and
development of this Eden gospel. Hence it is just as much the
gospel according to Moses, the gospel according to David and
Isaiah, as it is the gospel according to Matthew or Mark or Luke
or John or Peter or Paul. It is all alike gospel. And no one
who fails to see this can ever have a clear comprehension of the
Scripture.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
43
(5.) Bible truth must, in the nature of the case, be at least two-
sided, and often many sided. As it is the utterance of the divine
mind to a human mind, every proposition must have its divine
and its human side. On its divine side it may involve secret
things which belong to the Lord, but on its human side are the
things which concern us. Thus, it tells you in one place that
*' Pharaoh hardened his heart." Again that " the Lord hardened
his heart," and in another place that " Pharaoh's heart is hard-
ened." " All that the Father giveth me shall come to me." Here
is redemption viewed on its divine side. " And him that cometh
unto me 1 will in no wise cast out." Here in the same proposition
is redemption viewed on itsliuman side. So again, '* Work out
3^our own salvation with lear and trembling." Here is the process
of salvation viewed on its human side. '* For it is God which
worketh in you both to will and to do ol his good pleasure." Here
is the process of saving a soul viewed on its divine side. So again
Paul declares to the centurion : ** Be of good cheer, for there
shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship ; ior
there stood by me this night the angel of God, saying, God hath
given thee all that sail with thee." Here is the ground 01 implicit
confidence, viewing it uom the divine side. Yet a little after, as
the ship is going to pieces, and the sailors pretending to fix it, are
getting away in their boats, the same Paul says to the same cen-
turion : " Except these abide in the ship ye cannot be saved."
Here is the proposition of their safety viewed from the human
side. *' Why," the centurion might have said, " did not you tell
me that not a man would perish ? Now you say, unless I keep the
sailors on board they are going to be lost ; that is a contradiction."
Yes, you will find the Bible full of such contradictions ; and it you
want to show off your superior intellect, you will have a life work
with them.
Again, propositions relating to practical duty are two-sided or
many-sided. " He that is not with me is against me," is the rule
by which to judge your own heart. *' He that is not against us
is for us," is the rule by which to judge your neighbor, whose
heart you cannot see. One man coming to Jesus, in answer ta
His summons " Follow Me," says " Lord, suffer me first to go
and bury my father." Jesus says : *' Let the dead bury their
dead." Another, a wild man, living in the tombs, whom Jesus
heals, is so full of gratitude, that he wants to follow Him. But
Jesus answers : *' Go home to thy friends and tell how great things
the Lord hath done for you," In the first case, the endearments
of the family had got too fast a hold of the man :. he was not
ready yet to forsake all. But this wild man had never known
anything of such endearments. He must be fitted by them for
Christ's' service. The truth seems contradictory but it is the na-
ture of the truth.
And here is the secret of much religious controversy between
Evangelical Christians. One takes his stand on the divine side
of a great proposition of scripture, and will not go around and
44
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
look at the human side ; while the other, taking his stand on the
human side, will not go around to the divine side. Each stands
on his side rattling the dry bones of his metaphysics and devising
theories of interpretation, instead of simply comparing scripture
with scripture, and looking at all sides of the great truths of in-
spiration. If you would get at the mind of the Spirit, you must
bear in mind this many-sidedness of the truths revealed. The
caviler who is searching for contradictions may have as much
room for displaying his subtlety as he pleases. The Bible has
nothing to say to such — has nothing to say to any other than
earnest souls.
(6) Though we have the scriptures translated out oi the Hebrew
and Greek into the language of the people, still, being ancient
"books given in diflerent ages, it is needful also that they be trans-
lated out of the forms of thought belonging to ancient civilizations
into those belonging to our civilization. Hence the importance
ol acquainting ourselves with the peculiarities of the ancient
peoples to whom the oracles ot God were originally given. The
teacher skilful in this art may always rely upon an attentive and
interested hearing.
I have been at this thirty years. Beginning at Genesis 1" went
through book after book and chapter after chapter to Revelation.
The first time it took me seven years. " he next time at the rate
I went, it would have taken twelve years; the third time fifteen
years. After the war, I went home and took up the part before
omitted, and it will take me twenty years to get through.
(7.) I have said nothing as to how we may know that the
scriptures are the Word of God. The best of people sometimes
have doubts. David Brainard said, the morning before he died,
"that his mind was full of dark, atheistic doubts.' Satan is not
going to let you alone. He will give you doubts.
But to the class of minds contemplated in these remarks the
scriptures have a self-evidencing power more convincing than all
external proof; indeed, to them elaborate demonstration seems
impertinent. In our variable chmate you have sometimes seen
how spring, as if impatient obtrudes into the domain of winter its
mists and warm snowers: and winter, that has seemingly abdicated,
suddenly returns on the wings of the north wind, and as if to
punish the intrusion, steals upon the rain arop in the darkness oi
night as it is gathering upon the twig, and the moisture upon the
dripping walls, and the mist as 't is floating over hill and dale, and
with one blast of his cold bre-ith, transmutes all into solid crystal.
And of the return of the day behold, all nature sparkles in jeweled
robes, iis if under the fascinations of the magic lamp of Alladin,
edch withered blade is decked in a glittering robe, surpassing that
ol " Solomon in all his glory.' The trees of the field smile in a
gorgeous foliage that weighs down every twig as with a load of
burnished silver : the walls of hedges gleam in beauty as thejasper
walls ot heaven ; the hills, the craggy cliffs, the lofty mountains,
far as the eye can reach, seem floating in a sea of light, which
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
45
dazzles the vision with its effulgent brightness. Suppose, now, as
you gaze entranced upon a scene, some platitudinal philosopher
should propose to demonstrate to you by the principles of optics
the self-evidencing truth that it is the sun in heaven yonder that
gives this scene all the light and beauty ! Yet it would be hardly
less absurd to obtrude external and internal evidences of the
scriptures upon the spiritually-minded student to whose eye,
"A glory gilds the sacred page,"
that the source of its light and beauty is the glorious Sun of
Righteousness.
There is little to be gained by arguments on evidences with these
half-earnest, or unearnest^ unspiritual cavilers and sceptics, who
want to be demonstrated into the Kingdom of Heaven. " Ii any
man will {i.e., is willing to) do His will," saith Jesus, *' he shall
know of the doctrine whether it be ot God." It is want of will
rather than want of argument that leads men to doubt and cavil'
at the gospel. And upon such argument and proot are labor lost,,
and more than lost.
(8.) The best model in guiding and directing sinners is the
example of Jesus. Notice his instructions to them, and you have:
the very primer of the whole science.
(a.) He spoke with great simplicity, so as to be understood by
all. He rejoices that the things of His kingdom " are revealed
unto babes." In his inaugural sermon He declares that he is
" anointed to preach the gospel to the poor." To John the Baptist;
he sends, as part of the evidence of His Messiahship, the
announcement, " To the poor the gospel is preached." All His-
teaching is couched in simplest language, level to the understand-
ing of all, and --the common people heard gladly."
(6.) He spoke with authority. He used no learned arguments.
He tells them " I know this is true, for I came down from Father
to declare it," and " no man knoweth the Father but the Son."'
So Christians, like Him, should speak with authority, not reason-
ing on the high points of theology, but giving simply the testimony
of God's word.
(c.) He spake by parables. As a mother, in reply to her child's
questions, labors to build up the idea, piece by piece, by a sort of
parable, so Jesus^would say to his disciples : " You want to know
whether my gospel is to go on by the power of God ? Did you
ever see a man sowing wheat in a field ? Some fell on the way-
side, and was eaten up by the birds. Some fell on the rock, and
came up very quickly ; but was soon burnt up. Some fell among
thorns, and started off well ; but the thorns and weeds choked it.
And some fell on good ground, and brought forth much fruit.
That is the way my kingdom is to grow." And that is a perfect
description of every audience which from that day to this has
assembled to hear the gospel. And again Jesus said : ** Did you
ever notice a woman making bread ? She puts the yeast in the
centre of the pile, but she dosen't stir it. and soon it leavens the
46 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
whole lump. That is the way my kingdom is to leaven the world."
It is to plant in a community, in the very heart of it, a Y.M.C.A.,
like yeast in the meal, and let them work away, and soon you will
see the whole community leavened.
(d.) A fourth method of our Lord's teaching, the meaning ot
which has been surprisingly overlooked, was by miracles. Why
are so many miracles recorded ? One would have been sufficient
simply to attest the divine power of Christ. It is to illustrate in
things of an external nature that transcendent spiritual work which
f^oes on in the soul. Notice that at one time a blind man sees as
soon as Christ speaks. At another time the healed man says : " I
see men as trees walking," two miracles are required, all objects
are like shadows moving over a picture. So Christ performs
another miracle, He rectifies his judgment as well as his sight.
So in your spiritual darkness you get discouraged, but go on
toward Christ and as He has done one miracle for you He will do
the other. The cure of the deaf mute is a miracle to encourage
the most ignorant. This man sees and wonders who Jesus is.
Perhaps he thought He was a learned rabbi. Jesus takes him
^side from the multitude, ^ne evangelist says " out of the town," —
just as when a mother wants a little child to learn its Sunday-
school lesson, she takes it into a room away from the play-ground.
Then He touches his tongue with His spittle and puts His fingers
in his ears. He was talking to him by signs. After He wakes up
the desire and the hope that leads to faith, the poor deaf mute
thinks a great man is dealing with him. Then, with His fingers
in his ears He looks up to Heaven and sighs, as if saying " see
<leaf mute no power but that which cometh down from Heaven can
cure you." After this He says: "Ephphatha," be opened. Christ
never wrought a miracle until the blessing was wanted. Often
he awakened the desire as in the cripple at the Pool of Bethesda.
He had become a cynic, his whole nature was soured. *' Wilt
thou be made whole ?" " This is a curious question. I would not
have lain here thirty-eight years if I did not want to be made
whole." But what he asked it for was this : The man thinks,
*' This man is unlike others, for He even comes here and speaks
to me." Jesus awakes hope in the frozen soul. He listens as he
tells him how they get ahead of him, and then come the words :
*' Rise, take up thy bed and walk." His miracles are so many
•diagrams 01 His work of grace on souls in darkness, under a
sense of moral impotency or of utter ignorance.
The first thing, the first step is to come to him. The sum- and
substance of all scripture is that Jesus Christ wants to be the
Saviour of every one who wants Him to be his Saviour. Look at
the gospel figures ; they all form a single picture. The gospel tells
the sinner to '^fly to the stronghold." '* But," he says, " I have
not strength to fly." Then ^^ come unto me and I will give you
rest." ** Him that cometh to me," viz., him that is coming or is
making a motion to come, whether he feels I could help or not.
Him that is coming " I will in no wise cnst out." But if vou can-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
47
not come, then reach out your hand Hke that man in the synagogue.
li you say *' I cannot reach it out," then " look to Jesus " as the
children of Israel looked at the serpent which Moses lifted up in
the wilderness. Will you say "still there is a spiritual veil over
my eye ; I can see nothing distinctly ; " then says the gospel " Lie
still where you are, and I will throw my robe ot righteousness
around you." This is the gospel. And the last word that Jesus
Christ sent back after being on the throne fifty years — the last
word before the curse is pronounced against any that shall add to
or take from the. sacred oracles — against the Koran's and Joe
Smith's revelations — was " Close the Record." No ; there is
something else to come. Malachi closes up the Old Testament
calling for something afterwards. Jesus goes away and calls for
the Spirit; and just before that seal is put on, the love of Jesus
from the Throne yonder crowds down before the seal ol the last
gospel. The Spirit saith " Come," in those whisperings of con-
science that are heard in every man. The Bride, the Church I
have planted upon earth, say to every man " come," " come."
That is what the Church i^ on earth for. But some poor sinner,
where there is no church, may not hear the invitation. Then, " let
him that heareth say come." The private member ol the church,
'man, woman or child, can say " Hear my voice." To whoever has
the love of God in his heart, God says, " I will make you a
missionary." There is the authority for Young Men's Christian
Associations. If any one asks your authority for preaching the
gospel just take that text, '* Let him that heareth say come." Is
not that wide enough ? No ! Some poor sinner may say : " No
Christian invited me to * come.' " Shall, therefore, that poor soul
be lost ? No. Write, " let him that is athirst come," — come to
the waters of life. Now the door is wide enough. No ! not 3'-et.
Some simple soul says : " I am thirsty enough, but it don't say me."
Therefore, says the love of Jesus, in the last of the gospel that
-ever came from God and from heaven : " Strike out ' athirst,' and
put it in the widest language the thought of man can conceive —
■* Whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely,' " anci that
means any sinner that will come.
For the critical study of God's word, and we have a conversational
Bible class for young men. The Association will prosper in pro-
portion as its members are brought together over God's Word. In
studying this, we should, in the first instance, shut ourselves up
exclusively to it. The Bible is its own best commentator. Then
use other helps within reach. I believe with Geo. Muller, of
Ashley Downs, that man who has been living a life of faith for
fifty years, and whose mind is saturated with Bible truth, that it
is best to commence with Genesis and go through to Revelation,
because otherwise we are apt to go over repeatedly the parts of
Scripture that more particularly attract us, to the neglect of other
parts that are important for us to know. Let us determine to
know more about this precious truth, looking at it for ourselves,
that our souls may rest in the Lord. Always have a Bible with
4^ .VOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
marginal references. Let us familiarize ourselves with chapter
and verse, that we may the more easily refer to, and apply the
Word.
READ GOD'S WORD ORDERLY.
E. C. CHENERY.
From an old book by Elnathan Parr, in my library, given me by
a mother in Israel now eighty-eight years old, printed in London
in 1632, or twelve years after the landing of the Pilgrims, and six
years before the founding of Harvard College, and formerly the
property of one of the first graduates of that College, I transcribe
the following in both the spelling and punctuation, doubting not
that it will interest your readers, while its instruction may be safe
for us to follow : —
" The second thing required in reading oi the Word, is Order
and Method ; which is a great furtherance of knowledge, and a
singular helpe of memory. An army disranked and out of battell
aray, never getteth the victory ; so neither doth disorderly and
confusedly reading get any great measure of grounded knowledge.
" As St. Luke wrote the Gospel in an orderly manner from poynt
to poynt : so we are to reade the Word in an orderly manner^
going forward from poynt to poynt. Memorable is the example
of our Alphonsus a King of Spayne ; who, notwithstanding the
affairs of his Kingdom, read over the Bible fourteene times in
order, with certayne Commentaries upon the same. As his dili-
gence is here very commendable, and for our imitation ; so also
this He reade in order.
*' If therefore I were worthy to give directions this way, I would
thus advise : First, What booke soever we take to read, to begin
at the beginning, and so continue reading till wee come to the end
of it. And thus shall wee carry the summe and the drift of the
History and argument before us ; of which in a great part, they
which read now a chapter in one booke, now a leaf in another,
must needs be ignorant. Such simple Readers I may liken to
those simple women, which are alwyes reading, but are never able
to come to any sound knowledge of the truth. For as hee that
goeth but an easie pace in the right way, speedeth his journey
faster than hee that maketh more haste in a wrong way. Even so
a little read in a good order, advantageth the knowledge more than
greater paines, if it be confused.
" Second, I would advise, that in our reading we begin first with
easiest and plainest Books, as the History of Christ, set downe by
the evangelists, and the Booke of Genesis ; then to reade the Epis-
tles, first the shortest, as the Epistles to the Philippians, Colossi-
ans, the first and second to the Thesalonians : then the Epistles to
the Galatians, and to the Romans, which last Epistle is called of
some, the Key of the Bible. And when we have tryed ourselves
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
49
in these, then to begin the Bible, and to read it through ; For even
as in Trades there are some things more easie, to the w..xch the
apprentice is apphed ; and afterwards as he growcth in capacity,
hee is taught the harder and more secret things of his mystery ; so
in the Scriptures, there are some things easie and famihar for lear-
ners, and beginners, as milke for babes ; and there are other things,
hard and obscure, which is not safe to meddle withall, till we have
our sences well exercised in the Word.
" Theodosius the second Emperor of that name, is reported to
have written out the Bookes of the New Testament with his own
hand, accounting it a speciall Jewell ; and out of it hee read every
day, praying with his Wife and Sisters, and singing of Psalms.
And it was a famous Eunuches practice, as we may gather out of
the eyghth Chapter of the Acts. I reade of another Emperor of
Rome, who was wont to account that day lost, in the which he
had not bestowed a benefit upon some of his subjects: So we may
well reckon that day among our losses, in the which we reade not,
or meditate not of something in the Word Hath the
body neede of nourishment, and hath not the soule much more ?
Now the bread of the soule is the Word of God. O Lord, give
us evermore of this bread. Amen.
" The third thing that is to be done is Application ; to make use
of that we attayne unto in our reading, in the reforming of our
lives. Many esteem highly of the tree of knowledge, with Eve ; but
they regard not the tree of life ; when as the very life of our know-
ledge consist eth in the practice of that which we know.
*' Asit is sayd of Hearers, so itissayd of Readers. Not the readers
of the Word, but the doers shall be justified Some read
onely to this end, that they may know more than they did ; and
this is vanity : Some, that they may be knowne to know more ; and
this is pride: Some to make a gaine of their knowledge ; and this
is filthy lucre: Some, to edifie others ; and this is charity: Some
to edifie themselves ; and this is Christian prudence ; such like
words hath one of the Ancients. Another sayth thus : " Then is
our reading to be commended, when we turne the words into
works. The Scriptures are God's Epistle, written to men, to the
end they should live well. . .• . Now to God onely wise, be
honour and prayse for evermore. Amen ! Amen ! '"
METHODS OF BIBLE STUDY.
BY THE REV. HENRY S. DE FOREST.
The International Lesson Series, of necessity, has to hop, skip
and jump through the Bible. The three hundred and fifty lessons
allowed by the seven years only suffice to look at a small part of
what God has written. And while no undue thought is given to
the selected paragraphs, there is great risk that the Bible as a
whole may be neglected. It is well to keep in mind methods of
50 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Bible study other and in addition to the preparation of the Sun-
day-school lesson.
For one thing, the Bible should be read in course, over and over
again, till we are well familiarized with the whole. Revelation
was progressive. Like the rising of the sun, the light is dimmer
at first than at high noon. The promise that the seed of the wo-
man shall bruise the serpent's head is the dawn. We find midday
when in the fulness of time Christ came and brought life and im-
mortality to light. The Old Testament leads the way to the New,
as a porch stands before a more stately temple. The Gospel ac-
cording to John gives us views of Christ which we do not find in
the synoptical Gospels. The Acts give us the growth and develop-
ment of the church, whose foundation only is recorded by the evan-
gelists ; and the great doctrines, as that of justification by faith,
are presented in their fulness only in the Epistles. Then since
revelation has been a progressive w^ork, to understand it well we
need to begin at the beginning and advance to the end.
Another reason for this systematic study of the Bible is, that
without it we shall lose much of the rarest worth. For God's
ivord is a deep mine ; its treasures are found where we do not ex-
pect ; nuggets of the purest gold are hidden in the deepest depths ;
gems and sparkling jewels are found where we thought was noth-
ing but sand and gravel, — mere debris. Now to get it all, we must
explore the whole, and nothing that God has made in nature or
written in his word is beneath our attention. Then early in life,
while the memory is yet tenacious, let God's word be read in its
entirety, and till it has become familiar.
After mastering the Bible as a whole, we may well turn to those
parts which are best suited to our present needs, and read them
again and again with ever-increasing delight. The Bible speaks
to all classes of men, and is adapted to the varying moods of each.
It has been called a stream in which the lamb may wade, the
elephant find depths to swim. To the wayfaring man it is a plain
directory, while the philosopher may test his strength in its inscrut-
able mysteries. So it is suited to our different moods and chang-
ing emotions. David speaks to the soul cast down and disquieted
within ; he also gives the imprecatory Psalms for the man fight-
ing the enemies of God and of his country. Does the reader seek
poetry ? Job gives him Oriental imagery, and Isaiah Hebrew
majesty, which the uninspired page has never equalled. Is he
sententious and epigrammatic ? Let him read the Proverbs of
Solomon and he will find apothegms to his mind. Is his heart
breaking over a new-made grave ? Let him read in John of one
who came from heaven, yet, standing with the sisters at Bethany,
" wept." Is he going through the dark valley and shadow of
death ? He may find the Twenty-third Psalm a rod and staff.
But the death-bed suggests another method of Bible study, now-
a-days too much neglected. ScripUire should be committed to
memory. This is an age of reading ; it is not an age of retaining.
The memory once did stereotyping, now it is all done in the print-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 51
ing-office, and very little that we read is really our own. The
Bible should be with us in the dark and when the eyes are closed ;
when we cannot read, when we cannot hear, when fron; sickness
or the approach of death we are too weak to think, then, unbidden
and unsought, proniises and consolations from God's word should
come floating into the darkened chambers of thought, and, like
angels of light, they should minister to the sick and to the
dying. They will not come then, unless we entertain them now.
We must invite them till they are wonted with us and at home ;
then they will not fail to minister to us when our hand forgets its
cunning and the tongue cleaves to the roof of our mouth.
This memorizing some portion of God's word should be a
daily duty. Three hundred and sixty-five promises will in a year
make a bundle of wealth. Pursue this course from early life, when
the memory is especially active, till old age, and a man may not
only come down to his grave like a shock of corn fully ripe, but
he may carry with him a harvest of wealth, sheaf piled on sheaf
in more than autumnal luxuriance. If the selection be made a
pillow verse, and taken to bed with us, our couch wi^l be softer,
and our rising will be with a brighter light.
BIBLE STUDY.
A WORD TO YOUNG WORKERS.. BY C. P.
In these days of busy working, when God is calling so many
labourers into His great harvest-field, we are hearing inquiries on
all sides for improved plans and new methods of work, for the best
schemes and the most successful organizations. We would not for
a moment discourage this eager energy, or undervalue the import-
ance of framework and machinery. But we confess to being a little
jealous on behalf of our younger workers, lest, while sweeping on
in the express train of modern activity, they should forget that the
character of the worker weighs more heavily in the scale of real
success than the whole aggregate of improved plans or novel ex-
pedients ; and that what we are, will tell more upon the men and
women around us, than any amount of work we may do. It is
possible to astonish people by our marvellous energy of action, or
to call forth their applause while we spent with the " tongues of
men and of angels," and yet leave no impression of abiding blessing,
no mark engraven for Eternity.
It is with this conviction that we venture to put forth a few
suggestive thoughts upon the principles which must be embodied
in aJl true work for the Master, and the deep heart-discipline which
must underlie all that will be owned as success in the great day
of revelation.
Shall we place at the very outset of our education for service a«
habitual and child-like study of the Word of God? — child-like in this
sense, — that we come to it with no theories, no party views, no
52 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
" school of thought," to throw a coloring on its pages ; but, with
God's pure white light shining on the Book, we look up and say,
** Speak Lord,for thy servant heareth." Such a student of Scripture
will reject no assistance, and despise no contributions of help. He
is like a man looking for precious stones, and every tool will come
to hand in turn — whether spade or shovel, pick-axe or troAvel, it
matters not, if only he may find his jewels. So wtih our Bible
Study ; let science and history, travel and research, all be pressed
into the service, while we dig deep for the treasured wealth which
we shall surely find. We often hear it said that the " Christian is
a man of one Book." This is quite true ; but he honors that one,
not by ignoring all beside, but by laying all others under contribu-
tion, for the discovery and elucidation of its wondrous teaching.
Shall we love its blessed promises the less because we have searched
into its chronology or studied its geography ? Shall we tremble to
look into the works of God around us, lest their lessons should be
atfvariance with the written revelations of thesame Divine Author. ^^
Surely the great Master Teacher made no mistake when he threw
open the pages of Creation's book before His servant Job, and led
him, as it were, through its picture galleries till he could exclaim :
•* I know that Thou canst do everything ; I have heard of Thee by
the hearing of the ear ; but now mine eye seeth Thee, wherefore I
abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes."
Again ; we read that " God gave Solomon wisdom and under-
standing exceeding much and largeness of heart even as the sand
that is on the sea-shore." If this largeness of heart came so
directly from God Himself, it was undoubtedly for His own glory ;
and can we suppose that ignorance and narrow-mindedness should
honor him now ? " With Him is no variableness neither shadow of
turning." While we claim for the Word of God its place of unrival-
led pre-eminence, we also claim for it all the supplemental results
of investigation, and all the tributary streams of knowledge,
bringing, if we may use the expression, " their glory and their
honor into it."
But to pass on to our more immediate subject — the study of
the book itself. The question is so continually coming before us,
" How shall I most profitably read the Scriptures ?" that per-
haps the simplest hints, and the most ordinary experience, may
be permitted to help some one among the many inquirers. Let
us not fall into the mistake of supposing that one mode is to be
adopted to the exclusion of all others, or one scheme, strongly
recommended by some Christian friend, to be necessarily more
useful than any other. Let us realize our object, rather than be
engrossed with our plans. There is treasure to be found, and we
Want to dig it out ; there is honey in the rock, and we want
to taste it ; there is bread to be eaten, and we want to feed
upon it. Let us see to it, in the first place, that we are it* the
right attitude, and in the place of blessing; where is it ? Down,
low down, on our knees, at the feet of the Teacher, with the
fixed eye, tlie listenina- ear, the child's heart ; and, as surely
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 53
as God is true, we shall come away exclaiming, " I rejoice in
Thy Word as one that findeth great spoil !" But, again, we
seem to hear the question, " What plan of study are we to adopt ?"
Of course, there must be, in the first place, an accurate know-
ledge of the letter of Scripture, an intelligent reading of its his-
tories and acquaintance with its biography. We cannot expect
to understand typical teaching while we know very little of the
circumstantials of the types themselves, or to derive spiritual les-
sons from facts of which we are very imperfectly informed. Spirit-
ual apprehension is not based on mental ignorance, nor have we
any warrant to plead that our eyes may be opened " to behold
wondrous things out of God's law," while we are ourselves closing
them in a sleepy indolence. I believe we are verily guilty in this
matter. Many are wearily saying, " We ask and have not," as
though " God were slack concerning His promise," when there
has been no putting " the wood in order," no furnishing the cham-
bers," no "rolling away the stone." Shall the "strength of
Israel" be expected to contravene His own laws, or to reverse the
Word which He hath spoken, " The soul ol the sluggard desireth
and hath nothing ?"
We are deeply convinced that much of the doubtful teaching
and unstable profession of the present day is consequent upon a
superficial, and in many cases, a second-hand acquaintance with
the Book of God ; and this, agam, is often to be traced to an un-
suspected indolence which has crept in upon the heart and mind,
at the very time when outward activities were largely on the in-
crease. It is easier to receive a doctrine than to examine it, to
accept an induction than to inquire into the steps by which it
has been reached ; and the carelessness and inaccuracy resulting
from undue haste or idle credulity^ is banefuUy telling on much
of our Christian life and work.
. But while we raise a note of warning, our purpose is rather to
encourage earnest and willing hearts, who are desiring the " sin-
cere milk of the Word that they may grow thereby." We will
suppose, then, that you are fairly acquainted with the letter of
Scripture, but are anxious to go deeper, to learn how to profit by
it yourseli, and how to use it for the profit of others. The fact
that we pay to this Book a homage which can be yielded to no
other, and deal with its inspired pages as the recorded messages
from God to man, should surely increase rather than diminish the
spirit of reverent but searching inquiry with which we bring every
faculty to bear upon the study of it.
Let us endeavour to ascertain the scope and bearing of each
several book, before we take up its separate chapters — gathering
up all attainable information respecting the writer or writers of it.
If a prophetical book, for instance, let us remind ourselves of the
time and circumstances under which the Prophet wrote ; the
character of the reigning monarch ; the special sins or afflictions
of the people primarily addressed ; and all such preliminary in-
formation as may clear our way to an intelligent understanding
54 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
of the teaching before us. This may be done with more or less
assistance from other sources, but even where extraneous help is
at hand, we shall find that such subsidiary knowledge will be
more fixed in the memory when gathered from the Bible itself.
How much light is thrown on the Epistles of St. Paul by tracing
his different journeys Irom place to place, gathering up every
mention of the Church to which he wrote, and then finding out,
as we generally may, the special condition of things to which he
addresses himself in the letter we are studying. There is often a
key-note, which can be traced through endless variations, a
stratum ot thought or vein of teaching which crops up again and
again, and helps us to comprehend the whole. A careful examina-
tion into the general bearing of a book, or the structure of a pass-
age, would save us from many of those ignorant deductions which
might provoke a smile w^ere it not that the place whereon we
tread is holy ground. We might say much more on this pointy
but our readers will follow out the suggestion for themselves, and
there is no lack of valuable help from able pens — only let these
come after rather than before their own diligent investigations.
There is no doubt that some of our best Bible-teachers are those
who in their earliest studies, have been thrown mainly on the
blessed Book itself, and planted their foot deep in its virgin soil
before they brought in the added stores that may be gathered in
many fields.
Having, as it were, become acquainted with the growth of the
tree and its general character, take Luke's advice, and *' shake
every bough," examine every leat, that nothing may pass unheed-
ed. And when the book (be it history, prophecy, poem, gospel^
or epistle) has been grasped as a whole, return to it in its several
chapters and paragraphs, verse and clauses, gathering up their
more specific lessons as you pass along.
Shall we take another line of thought ? There are certain chap-
ters or passages in the Bible which seem, so to speak, like great
trunk-roads, from which a variety oi paths branch out in every
direction, and these should be carefully studied and kept in re-
membrance. Take, for example, Genesis iii., with its brief and
comprehensive outlines of ruin and redemption^ of death and re-
surrection. We have temptation, disobedience, shame, fear, follow-
ing one another in sorrowful sequence ; then the cursed ground^
with its thorns and thistles, the toil-worn man and the sentence
of the tomb ; the subject woman, with her suffering mother-life, —
and we have never once lost sight of these things from that day
to the present. Agriculture, history, family-life, have all borne
witness to the inspired record, and successive centuries have " '^et
to their seal that God is true." But along with the dark shadows,
we have the bright gleam of love and promise, starting from the
same point, and carrying its wondrous line of light through all
the darkness of intervening ages, till a golden star stands over the
manger of Bethlehem.
Or, again, take Genesis x., beginning trom chapter ix. 25, and
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 55
read it with a map of ancient geography before you, bearing in
mind Deuteronomy xxxii. 8, as an inspired comment upon all its
geographical allotments. We might refer to the blessings of the
tribes in Genesis xlix. and Deuteronomy xxxiii., with their mys-
terious and far-reaching significations; but we pass to another
suggestion. Let us begin again at Genesis iii., and take up the
line of the " holy seed," now no longer indigenous in earth's soil,
but become, as it were, a stranger in a " strange land." Observe
from the time of Abel onward that God leaves not Himself with-
out a witness, and watch the light touching on the lives of Seth,
Enoch, and Noah, till it rests more broadly on the head of Abraham,
the progenitor of Israel, the Father of the Faithful in all genera-
tions, and the friend of God, following it on in all its after develop-
ment till we pause at the Apostle's conclusion : " He saith not,
And to seeds, as of many ; but as of one, And to thy seed, which
is Christ." (Gal. iii. i6.) Or, again, let us take the thought of
THE KINGDOM, SO piomincut throughout the whole course of
Scripture teaching. We go back to Gen. iii., and see Adam —
God's appointed vicegerent on earth — descending at the instance
of the tempter from his high position, and voluntarily allowing
his government to pass into the hands of the usurper ; but inas-
much as the .'Imighty word has gone forth that humanity should
"have dominion," the faithless act must be retrieved, the abdica-
ted throne must find its occupant, the bartered inheritance must
be purchased back again, even though the redemption shall cost
the life of the conquering Redeemer. There are years of darkness
and of waiting to come between, there are depths of mysterious
agony, which none but the God-man could fathom, but " He
shall not fail nor be discouraged." We may trace through the
law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms, all things that were
to be fulfilled concerning Him, and following Him through the
dark passage of the tomb and the open gate of His glorious Resur-
rection, the eye of faith sees Him now crowned with glory and
honour (Heb. ii. 9). We shall see Him ere long wearing His
many crowns — the " last Adam, the Lord from Heaven," as reign-
ing Monarch of the universe (Psalms viii., Heb. ii.,) the once rejec-
ted but now triumphant Messiah of Israel (Psalms ex., Luke i. 32,
33), the risen Head and Bridegroom King of His blood-bought
Church (Cant. iii. 11, Rev. xix). Then, and not till then, shall
the God of Heaven vindicate His insulted honour, and " the king-
doms of this world shall become the kingdom of our Lord and of
His Christ."
All this is very cursory. It is merely thrown out as suggestive,
and such suggestions might be multiplied indefinitely. There are
the successive dispensations, each with its own peculiar teaching.
There is the elect nation, involving and foreshadowing the great
truth of an elect Church, to be hereafter manifested to the praise
of the glory of His grace. But enough, if we may only be per-
mitted to put the latch on the door for a few yearning hearts,
into some of the chambers of God's great treasure-house. Shall
56 NOTES FO\ BIBLE READINGS.
we not all realize, as we launch out on the ocean of His revealed
love, that "there are shallows in which the lamb may wade, and
depths in which the elephant must swim ? "
Let us come now to some very simple and practical hints. The
right use of the Concordance is a more important subject than
may appear at first sight. When legitimately employed, it is
invaluable ; but as commonly resorted to in these hasty and
superficial days, it may become a positive evil. Let us make
every effort to discover a verse, and recollect its context, before we
fall back on such help. We believe no one will ever become a
good textuary who opens a Concordance without any feeling of
regret or shame at the necessity of applying to it. The practice
should certainly not become habitual with our young Bible-
students, however much it may be needed in after years of pressure
and failing memory. But a mode of study which the Concordance
will be found most helpful, is the selection of some subject in
which the leading word may be traced through all the pages where
it occurs, and afterwards worked out isn the variety of its bearings.
Take, for example, redemption, holiness, charity, any central
word embodying the thought you wish to investigate, and follow
it out through the length and breadth of the Scripture field, till it
becomes in-wrought into the tissue of your memory and mind.
It will be food for your own soul, and subject-matter for your
teaching. Again, take the life of some child of God, as recorded
by the inspired writers — gathered out, as it often needs to be, with
much care and diligence from various sources ; — sometimes an
allusion in one place, or a quotation in another, adding to our
material where wc least expect it (for instance, we go to Psalm
xcix. to find that Moses was called a priest : to Acts vii. to be
told that he was ** learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians ; "
and to Heb. xi. to learn that he refused to be called the son Oi
Pharaoh's daughter ;) and having sketched the biography with
as much accuracy as possible, go through it again, with special
reference to its typical meaning.
And this brings us to a subject where we must tread softly, and
speak very humbly — the allegorical and figurative teaching of
Scripture history. ■ While we see, on the one hand, the marvellous
depth and fulness of the Book of God, promise within promise
*' infolding itself," prophecies reading on into the " ages ot the
ages," stories wrapping up within their simple outline lessons (/>.
undeveloped mysteries; yet must we be very jealous, on the
other hand, lest human wisdom usurp the office of the Holy
Ghost, or human fancy play with the typical and the mj^stical,
and bring its own flowers into the hallowed garden of the Lord.
Wherever we have Scripture interpretation of symbolic language,
or Scripture light falling on typical actions and persons, let us
apply it to the utmost extent, but beware at the same time that
we never speak dogmatically where God has not spoken, lest we
be found to " darken counsel by words without knowledge." How
many books of so-called Bible teaching are calculated to bewilder
rather than enlighten the student.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. CK
Perhaps one check upon the fanciful inventions which so dis-
honor the Word of God might be found in a more earnest desire
and faithful purpose to discover its practical bearing on our daily
life. It needs be that we maintain an exact proportion between
increase in knowledge and growth in holiness, a corresponding
development ol the enlightened understanding and the " enlarged
heart," lest we be found among those whose crushing sentence
will be that they "■ knew their Lord's will and did it not." An in-
tellectual apprehension of Scripture truth which leaves the affec-
tions untouched and the life unsanctified, will prove a powerless
thing when we are called to witness for our absent Master, in
daily conflict with the world, the flesh and the devil. The Bible
loved and the Bible livedo will be the only true sequel to the Bible
studied.
CONSECUTIVE READING OF THE BIBLE.
The Bible is one Book. It is human history by a Divine
Historian. No other book would yield any such result as the
Bible, if it were read piecemeal and spasmodically, as the Bible is
read. For just as the Church is built of living stones, so the Bible
is composed of truths, every one of which is full of life. But as
the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ is exhibited in
the Church, which is his body, the fulness of Him who fllleth all
in all, so if we want to know the full blessedness of the Word of
God, we must receive it in its entirety, and read it as the Holy
Ghost has given it to us. Perhaps no chapter is more familiar than
Luke XV.; but how few have observed that chapters xv. and Xvi.
are but portions of one discourse, and that the five parables must
be consecutively read, if we would see how the Lord not only
justifies Himself in receiving and eating with publicans and sin-
ners, but rebukes the accusing Pharisees and Scribes, and, as the
€lder son, the unjust steward, and the rich man, shows their self-
righteousness, their unrighteousness, and their doom.
Mr. George Muller, of Bristol, says: — Though in my earlier life
' I was engaged in the ministry of the Word in my own country, I
neglected for four years the consecutive reading of the Bible. The
•consequence was, I was a babe in knowledge and in grace. I made
no progress, because I neglected God's own appointed means tor
nourishing the divine life. But it pleased God to lead me to love
His Word. I was led to see that the Holy Ghost is the only in-
structor of the soul, and that the Word is the medium by which
He teaches. Spending three hours on my knees, I made such pro-
gress that I learned more in those three hours than in years before.
From that time I became a lover of the Word of God ; and in this
way I have been going on ever since. In July, 1829, I began this
plan of reading from the beginning the Old and the New Testa-
ments. Before I had been treating the Bible as a lottery, reading
at just where I opened. Of course after a time it opened just in
58 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
the same place, and I got accustomed to read only certain portions^
Consequently I knew nothing even of the letter of much of the
Word of God. But under my new plan, little by little, I made
more and more progress ; and thus it came to this, that when I was
asked where any text was to be found I could give chapter and
verse — became, in fact, a living concordance. A few years after
I began this method I was in a large drawing-room in a nobleman's
house. Most there had known the Lord longer than I, but they
referred to me, and I could tell where passages they wanted were
to be found. This came by habitually reading the Scriptures-
through.
At one time I came to i Chronicles. I thought " The first ten
chapters consist almost entirely of names. I have read them
recently : I may pass them over now." But I reflected that it was
the Word of God, and read the whole. At the fourth chapter I
came to Jabez's prayer, "Oh, that Thou wouldest bless me indeed,"
&c., and God gave me a rich blessing in my soul in reading that
God gave him that which he requested. I now read i Chron. with
the same delight as the Gospels, the Psalms, or the Epistles.
I would recommend you not to read always the Old or the New
Testament, but alternately, e.g., the Old in the morning, and the
New in the evening. One especial blessing that will come to the
soul is this : God furnishes a variety of food, and this He gives in
His whole revelation. This is deeply important. We are thus,
kept from partial and favourite views, which are poison to the
soul. There seem apparent contradictions in the Word, but by
patiently and calmly going on reading and meditating, these are
removed. I have read through the Bible more than a hundred
times, and I find no stumbling-block at all. This is because I am
satisfied with God. The first, the greatest thing in the divine life
is to know God — not according to notions of Him current in the
Church, but as He is revealed in the Word. You will find Him
such a lovable Being, of infinite wisdom and power ; and He
exercises these on behalf ot His people. How kind, how gracious,
how gentle He is! The great point is to become acquainted with
Him as He is revealed in his Word, not according to men's notions
of Him. Have we not thought of Him as an austere Being ? but
he that has become acquainted with God says with the Psalmist
(ix.) " They that know Thy name will put their trust in Thee."^
By thus regularly reading, the love of the Scriptures is kept up^
When I have read them through I am as delighted to begin again
as I was forty-six years ago. Of course this is by the grace of
God, but instrumentally it is through this habit oi consecutive
reading.
Mr. Muller closed with two illustrations of the value of consec-
utive reading, one shewing the connection between Exodus iii. 5.
and Joshua v. 15 ; the other between John vii. 53 and viii. i ; both
of which would probably be unperceived if the Bible were not con-
secutively read.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 50
READING AND MARKING THE BIBLE.
Some useful hints have been freely taken from Mr. Moody and
other sources, but the chief features of this view of the subject are
the result of several years' experience of the writer and various
friends who have adopted his system.
We assume that the reader has opportunity and inclination to
read the precious Word of God at least two or three times a day.
We earnestly recommend him to observe these occasions regularly^
and to follow a systematic course of reading, or two or three
courses. For instance, there are few who cannot by means of early
rising procure twenty minutes, or even an hour, for Bible-reading
in the mornmg ; if this is his longest opportunity, it might be best
employed in getting a connected view of an historical period, with-
out entering deeply into the subject, (see No. i below). In the
evening he may employ the same length of time in reading a short-
er portion from some one writer (as No. 2 below). Each of these
exercises must be entered upon with earnest prayer ; but the study
of a single passage (as No. 3) is perhaps of the most devotional
character, though the effects of the former modes upon the heart
and mind cannot be less evident. We would recommend the latter
for noonday reading, if available, or it may be blended with the
others. On all these occasions the reader may carefully mark any-
thing which strikes him.
The reader should have a good, portable reference Bible — either
Bagster's Polyglot edition, or the Oxford S. S. Teacher's with con-
cordance, index, &c., Frowd's Margin or Bagster's wide margin
Bible, is recommended. The first is in extensive use, and is pub-
lished in three sizes, fac simile of each other; the second is well
suited for tabulating and marking, the last has the advantage of
wide margins for notes. The following works are more or less in-
dispensable, and the price of the first two is very little : —
" Cruden's Concordance"; '* The Scripture Text-Book and Trea-
sury," recommended by Mr. Moody ; " Inglis' Bible-Text Cyclo-
paedia"; " Townsend's Chronological Harmony of the Bible"; and
the " Englishman's Greek Concordance," in which the Greek par-
allelisms are exhibited for English readers in the words of our
English version.
I. The simplest course of reading should be chronological — i. e.y
in the order of the narrative, without regarding the ordinary ar-
rangement of the books, nor of their several contents. Thus, one
book must sometimes be inserted in another, and the difierent
parts of a book transposed. It will give a great additional interest
to the historical portions of the Sacred Word to have them thus
naturally interspersed with the poetical or prophetical writings,
while it will also show the prog^ress of revelation. The reader who
€0 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
has not access to a good " Harmony" can generally find indica-
tions of date in the references, or in the inspired inscriptions of
some of the chapters, as, for instance, Psalm li.: "A Psalm of
David, when Nathan the prophet came to him": so with Psalms
lii. and liv., Isaiah vi. and vii., and many others.
The following rough sketch of the historical order of the Old
Testament may be acceptable to some of our readers : — Gensis i.
to X., Job (date uncertain), Genesis xi. to the end ; Exodus i. and
ii., Psalm Ixxxviii., Exodus iii. to end ; Leviticus ; Number i. to
xiv.. Psalm xc, Numbers xv. to the end ; Deuteronomy ; Joshua;
Judges i., ii., xvii. to xxi., and iii. to xvi.; Ruth; i Samuel i. to xxx.,
with about twenty of the Davidic Psalms (i Chronicles i. to ix. is
a genealogy of the preceding history); i Chronicles x. to the end,
parallel with i Samuel xxxi. to the end of 2 Samuel, and the
remainder of the Davidic Psalms ; i Kings i. to iv., 2 Chronicles
i.; Song of Solomon ; Proverbs ; i Kings v. to xi., 2 Chronicles ii.
to ix. ; Ecclesiastes ; i Kings xii. to the end of 2 Kings xiv., and 2
Chronicles xxv., 2 Kings xv. to the end, 2 Chronicles xxvi. to the
€nd, parallel with the prophets (see inscriptions, &c), as follows:
Jonah, Joel, Amos, Hosea, Isaiah, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah,
Jeremiah, Lamentations, Habakkuk, Daniel, Obadiah, Ezekiel,
Haggai, Zechariah, Esther, Ezra, Nehemiah, Malachi.
2. Simultaneously with this he may study one book separately ;
noticing, firstly, its external circumstances — who wrote it ? when ?
where ? &c. ; then its natural structure and scope ; discover and
analyse its natural divisions ; and thus, if he wishes, draw up his
own table of contents. Take an illustration of this : —
The last twenty-seven chapters of Isaiah form one single great
prophecy, the subject of which is Jehovah's servant, Christ. The
prophecy is subdivided into three books; the first and second both
€nd with the solemn words: " There is no peace, saith the Lord,
unto the wicked"; and at the end of the third the lot of the wicked
is more fully described : "Their worm shall not die, neither shall
their fire be quenched, and they shall bean abhorring unto all flesh."
Each of these books consists of three sections of three chapters
each, corresponding pretty closely with the divisions in our English
Bibles, though not exactly. The following table exhibits this
division to the eye:-»-
Chapter. Chapter, Chapter,
XL. XLIX. LVIII.
XLI. L. LIX.
XLII.-XLIII. 13. LI. LX.
XLIII. I4-XLIV. 5. LII. I-I2. LXI.
XLIV. 6-23. LIII. LXII.
XLiv. 24XLV. end. liv. lxiii. 1-6.
xLvi. Lv. lxiii. 7-LXIV. end,
XLVII. LVI. 1-8. LXV.
XLVIII. LVI. 9-LVII. 21. • LXVI.
Thus the fifty-third is the middle chapter of the middle book of
NOTES FOR B.BLE READINGS. 6l
this great prophecy, as it is indeed the heart of the prophetic
"writings of the Old Testament ; and the central verse of the
central chapter contains the cex.tral truth of the Gospel, — the
truth that both among Jews, and Greeks, and heathen of every
name and nation is the power of God unto salvation : — " He was
wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities,
the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with his stripes
we are healed."
Similarly, Psalm xxii. occupies the centre of the first book of
Psalms (Psalm i. and ii. being introductory), and the sentence,
" They pierced my hands and my feet," is in the middle.
[The above instances were suggested by Dr. Kay's excellent
work on the Psalms.]
It does not seem generally known that the Psalms are composed
of five books, naturally divided thus : — Psalms i. and ii. introduction
to the whole Psalter, or included in) Book I., Psalms i. to xli.;.
Book n.. Psalms xlii. to Ixxii.; Book HI., Psalms Ixxiii. to Ixxxix.
Book IV., Psalms xc. to cvi.. Book V., Psalms cvi. to cl.
3. But perhaps the most delightful and profitable spiritual
exercise is to carefully and prayerfully study a single ' passage.
Proceed thus : consider the external circumstances, both as to the
writer and the subject-matter itself; consider the scope of the
paragraph or chapter containing the passage ; remark the structure;
compare it with its connexion, and with marginal references; ponder
the words ; endeavour to grasp the idea of the words ; and make
the required application* A. B.
USE OF BIBLE IN INQUIRY ROOM.
BY D. W. WHITTLE. '
I St. Unconditional submission to the authority oi the Word.
Enter into no argument upon the authenticity of the Scriptures.
Lessen the power of no part of the Bible by any admission as to
any part not being of God, given by inspiration ; with rare excep-
tions, those who desire such arguments are not honest, they are
not seeking light but fortifying themselves in darkness. You can-
not help them. Should you meet with one who has an honest
desire for information as to the history of the composition and
compilation of the Scriptures, you can place him in the way of
obtaining it ; but do not occupy the time in the Inquiry Room
upon the subject. If two men were to meet to engage in conflict
with swords, and one were to say to the other : " Now before be-
ginning the battle, I desire to know the history of your sword, and
to have proof of the authenticity of its claims as a sword," a
proper reply would be, " That question can be easily settled by
our at once commencing the conflict. I will show you by my use
of my weapon, the reality of its being a sword."
So we ought to so use the Word as '* the sword of the Spirit,'*
62 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
in the application of its truths to the conscience of the sinner, tliat
he will not want any historical proof as to the message being from
God. Infidelity concerning parts of the Bible is very prevalent.
Many professed Christians are not ashamed to say that they do
not believe all the Bible, and, as a rule the unconverted man
reserves the right of rejecting whatever he pleases. To one who
has been but a surface student of the Word, and has not seen the
place, in gradual unfolding, in typical teaching, in prophetic
symbolism, that every chapter and verse of the Bible has in the
revelation of God's scheme of redemption for ruined man and sin
cursed earth, it seems an unimportant matter to answer the doubts
of the unbeliever by saying, '' Well, perhaps that ought not to be
in the Bible," or, " It is probably a mistranslation. It would have
been better to have had several books of the Old Testament left
out," or, " It isn't necessary that you should believe that," or
some similar admission that yields the point to the devil and
makes God a liar. Such do not realize their sin in dishonouring
God, nor the evil consequences of their infidelity to the inquirer.
If the Word is impeached in one part, discredit is thrown upon
every part. And whatever profession a man may be led to make
that he trusts Christ as his Saviour, if he has admitted doubt into
his mind as to any part of the Scripture, he has no assurance as
to his own acceptance, and no peace in believing.
Every worker in the Inquiry Room will frequently meet with
the question : " Now do you really believe a}l the Bible ? Must
we believe that Jonah was swallowed by a whale, and about the
flood, and so on ?" The answer should be given with the same
seriousness, and in a manner calculated to make the same impres-
sion, that the reply of a wife, who justly revered her husband,
would produce if she were asked if she really believed her
husband always spoke the truth.
Let the answer of every child of God ever be : " All Scripture
is given by inspiration of God. Every part of the Bible is
literally true. I believe the Word just as God has spoken it how
'dare you suggest that I doubt it ! "
Much might be said upon this subject, and, perhaps, not too
much if it led us into the deeper sense of the reality of the Bible as
the word of the living God, and a more profound reverence for it
as the book of truth. Certainly the Holy Ghost cannot use an
infidel to bring souls to Christ, and if infidelity is.in our hearts,
our labor will count for naught. We must go to God and confess
it as a sin, and look to Christ for deliverance from it. And, as
we should treat it as a sin in ourselves, so we should treat
it as a sin in others. It is not for us to sympathize, in a false
sense, with those who say they can't believe the Word of God,
but to tell them plainly that unbelief is the vilest sin the soul of
man is capable of committing against a Holy God, and that it
must be repented of and forgiveness through the blood of Christ
received, or it will inevitably land the sor' n eternal perdition.
A dear minister, in St. Louis, was met in the Inquiry Room one
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 63
evening by an intelligent man who answered his appeal to him to
accept Christ, by saying that he couldn't believe the Bible. His
reply was, " Well, sir, whether you believe it or not the Bible is
true, and if you don't believe it you will be lost." The gentleman
looked at him for a moment and knew from the expression of my
friend that he had replied from the profound convictions of his
own soul. His next objection was, " I can't believe that Jesus
Christ was the Son of God ;" the answer was, " Well, the Bible
says He was the Son of God, and whether you believe it or not,
He is the Son of God, and if you do not believe it you will be
damned."
The minister turned away with the impression that the gentle-
man would be angry, but believing he had been guided aright. A
friend oi the inquirer remonstrated with him, that he had not
argued the question, but he left it in the hands of God. Within a
few minutes, the gentleman came to him with the question : "What
must I do about this matter ? How can I be saved ?" Was
pointed to the cross, and knelt with tears of thanksgiving and
praise to Christ as his Saviour. God admits of no excuse, no
palliation for unbelief; and surely God cannot be beseeching
sinners by us, while we are in a mock condition of sympathy with
the unbeliever, and smoothing over and palliating his sin, rather
than showing him its heinousness and awful condemnation.
Our power in the use of the Word depends upon answering
faith in its infallibility, " Thus saith the Lord," must be to us all
■sufiicient, for ourselves and for others. With the firm belief ol
the truth of Christ's declaration " That the Scriptures cannot be
broken," we will handle our weapon with confidence, we will
wield it with all our strength. With these words of introduction
as to the Word let us pass on to specific suggestions as to its use
in bringing souls to Christ.
In the army, the ammunition for the soldiers starts from the ar-
senal. In a general sense all the ammunition for the army is pre-
pared there from same material and for same purpose. When
sent out it is sorted, and each command receives that fitted to
the calibre of their weapons. Each soldier receives all he has
capacity to carry, and for which he is expected to have immediate
use. So with the Bible. It is God's arsenal. All of its truths
are from Him. All for the purpose of glorifying Christ, and over-
coming the power of sin. But when these truths are to be put in
action, they are sorted. We are to select as led of the Holy Spirit,
passages adapted to our calibre. We should never put before
others a message from God's word, that dosen't come hot from
our own hearts, or use truth that we have not ourselves digested.
So we are made able ministers, as in 2 Cor. iii. 6. We should
gather from the Bible, for use according to our capacity. We
should not attempt to teach beyond our apprehension ; and of the
passages that have fed us, and that we can carry, we should al-
ways have at hand, as the individual soldier the forty rounds in
his cartridge box, supply for immediate use. Classify in your
64 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
mind, or what is better, upon a sheet of paper, the truth needed
for presentation to the sinner, then under each head of the classi-
fication note your passages, and make yourself famihar with them,
and with their position in your Bible. Always use your Bible in
referring to them. Do not use a slip, printed or otherwise, and
do not quote from memory. Your own classifications, and your
own selections of passages, will be better foryour own use than
any would be that is provided for you. But it is wise to compare
with others, and to receive suggestions from others. And, as a
suggestion, I offer the following classification, which you can note
down, and fill out with your own Scripture references.
ist. Requirements of God's law.
2nd. Failure of man to keep the law.
3rd. Condition of man condemned by the law.
4th. Man's rejection of God's Son.
5th. Christ as the substitute under the law.
6th. Forgiveness through Christ.
yth. Illustrations of faith.
8th. Illustrations of salvation.
With the general line of truth here set forth, in mind, other
classifications will suggest themselves. In sitting down with an
inquirer do not expect that you must use all your ammunition upon
him. Be natural, kind and courteous in your approach to those
v/ho may be strangers to you ; win their confidence by your sym-
pathy and genuine interest in their welfare, and ascertain their
condition ; ask them to tell you frankly just how much they are
interested, and how much concern they feel as to their personal
salvation.
My first question usually to an inquirer is, ** Do you believe
that you are a sinner before God, and lost without a Saviour ?"
And the answer to this determines the direction of the instruction.
If you find that conviction has been produced by the sermon, and
that an anxious sinner is before you, do not seek to reproduce
what has been already done by the Holy Spirit, but, if he admits
his lost condition, show to him the testimony of God's word as to
the full and complete satisfaction made by the death of Christ for
his sins, that forgiveness is offered to faith, and, that faith is to
take God at His word and believe the record. Urge his imme-
diate surrender to God, and acceptance of the Gospel. On the
other hand, if the inquirer is only awakened, to a sort of half-way
desire to become a Christian, and has no deep convictions as to
his present lost condition, and of the nature of sin, present the
truth to him under the first four heads. If conviction is produced
present Christ, and urge immediate acceptance. If the inquirer
denies the testimony of the Word as applied to himself, and tries
to justify himself, and make out a good character, and clings to
his self-righteousness, he is not in a condition to be urged to say
that he will trust in Christ. Show him what Christ has done, in
connection with the truth as to his own utterly lost condition, and
leave such truth with him as will sweep away his false views of
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. Qe
himself and lead him to Christ. Great harm is done in pressing
a sinner to a decision before the Spirit of God has prepared the
way. Our one anxiety in deaJir^g with souls should be, to be
faithful, as in Christ's stead, and not go beyond the Spirit's lead-
ings.
The large majority of those we shall meet in the Inquiry Room,
during Mr. Moody's meetings, if we can judge by reports ol his
work, and by our personal knowledge of the Holy Spirit's power
that he has -eceived, will be those prepared by faithful presenta-
tion of the truth, accompanied by the Spirit's power to their souls,
to be tcld ill tnt, simplest possible way how to believe ; they will
see that tliey are lost, they will see that Christ is a Saviour, they
will see. the plan of redemption, the one absorbing thought will
be, " Is thei e salvation for me ? Can I be saved ? How can I get
hold of Christ ?" Heie is the blessedness of this personal work.
God seems to have so ordered it that right here there must be
personal contact between the Spirit of God through a believer,
and in the word of God, by the mouth of a believer, and the sin-
ner, and the lebult is life.
The passages most used by the Holy Spirit in this way, in
meetings in this country, and as I have seen by the reports, and
have heard from Mr. Moody himself in meetings in England, have
been those that most plainly set forth Christ as the sinner's sub-
stitute. John iii. i6, and its use will illustrate this. Also Isa. liii.
6. Rom. iii. 25. Gal. iii. 13. i Peter ii. 24. We can have great
confidence in magnifying God's grace, and preaching an uncondi-
tional salvation.
Our part is to make known the Gospel — both sides of it. (2
Cor. ii. 16.) God will take care of the result if we use his Word
in dependence upon the Holy Spirit.
To get the sinner to look away from self to Christ is our work.
The sinner under conviction is kept in darkness by looking at
and into himself. He has a conception of what a religious ex-
perience ought to be, and waits for it to come to him. He tries
to work up his feelings by thinking of his sins, and by thinking
of the sufferings of Christ, with the idea that when he has pro-
duced feeling enough that will be a religious experience, that will
be conversion, while he has not really laid hold of Christ at all
by a saving faith. By the use of the Word, we present Christ to
the sinner as the object of faith,- and the Scriptures revealing
Christ as the ground of faith. God's promises in the Gospel are
like so many hands held out to the sinner to draw him to Jesus.
We read of Jesus many times when on earth " He put forth his
hand and touched him," '* He laid his hand on every one of them
and healed them." So his hands are still put forth in the Gospel
invitations.
A dear old lady came once to a meeting where Christians were
having much joy in the apprehension of Christ, and trembling,
ixu J with tears, arose and said : '' I want you should pray for me,
I have been forty years a member of a Church, but am not a
65 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Christian. I have never had any assurance that my sins were
forgiven. I was convicted of sin when young, and earnestly
sought acceptance with God. I was told to join the Church and
the experience I desired would come. I did so and have strag-
gled on for forty years, doing every duty, so far as in my power —
doing everything that Christians do — but I am not saved." She
sat down weeping, and many wept with her for sympathy, at the
recital of her long, weary, fruitless forty years in the wilderness.
She was pointed to the record, as in Rom. iv. 24, 25, and v. i,
and saw by the Word that her justification was an accomplished
fact in Christ, and that the way to appropriate it and to realize it
was, not by feeling, not by struggling for an experience, not by
joining the Church, not by doing, but by simply believing what
God said about it.
Her joy was like the joy of a little child. This Scripture had
revealed Christ to her^ and enabled her by iaith to receive Him
into her heart.
It is of the enemy of souls to lead the convicted sinner to look
for the experience of feeling and the results of believing before
he believes. He is told, and truly so, tl^at all the s<-eps of his
conversion must be the work oi the Holy Spirit ; that he must be
drawn by the Spirit, quickened by the Spirit, and that when he
is born again that " the Spirit will bear witness with his spirit
that he is a child of God," — all oi which 13 mcst blessedly true —
but all of which the ai xious soul will invariably misapply. We
are to show him 'that the Holy Spirit does all this through the
Word, as presenting Christ. That he is drawn by the Gospel in-
vitations, Matt. xi. 28 ; that he is quickened when he believes;
that " Christ was delivered for his sins, and was raised again for
his justification," Rom. iv. 25, and his attention should be speci-
ally directed to the testimony that the sinner can know nothing
of the indwelling and the witness of the Holy Spirit until after he
believes. See John i. 12; vii. 38,39; i John v. 10-13, Eph.i. 13; and
Rom. viii. 16, in connection with Rom. v. i and viii. i * *
*******
In all these Scriptures, and in every Scripture that refers to the
testimony of the Holy Spirit in the soul, it is stated or implied
that the soul has first believed, and that the witness of the Spirit
accompanies the Iaith that is exercised in the message of salva-
tion, and never comes until such faith is exercised.
We must lift up Jesus — Jesus only, as revealed in the Word,
with the message of a finished and complete salvation, before the
sinner, and insist — without reference to his excuses, his plea of
inability, or his desire for delay — upon his immediate duty being
the surrender of his will to God in the believing on the Lord
Tesus Christ. Insist that the will, on his part, to be saved is all
he wants. Show him that he is permitted to take salvation, and
to take it free, Rev. xxii. 17 ; that he is invited to take it, Matt.
xi. 28. Show him that he is entreated to take it, 2 Cor. v. 20 ;
that he is commanded to take it, i John iii. 23 ; and finally, that
NOTES FOR BIBLE. READINGS. 67
your warrant for urging him is that your Lord has said : *♦ Compel
them to come in," Luke xiv. 23 ; and that Christ has said they
are lost because they will not come. John v. 40.
Always leave the inquirer with his finger on the chapter and
verse that has been used by the Spirit to give him light. Tell
him to make much of that Word ; to rest upon that and not upon
his feelings as to the fact of his salvation.
Never consider your work as done until you have evidence that
the sinner fully accepts Christ, and he can say that he fully and
joyfully believes, John v. 2.4, and testify on the authority of the
Word that he is saved.
Be faithful in presenting to the new-born child of God his posi-
=tion as a follower of Christ, in this world. Show, to him that his
growth and usefulness as a Christian, and his communion with
God, will depend upon his being dead unto sin, and living in the
spirit of entire consecration to God and separation from the
world, and that this result is attained, not by any power in him-,
self, but by looking constantly unto Jesus. Urge upon him his
responsibility for the souls of others, and his immediate duty to
labor for their salvation. If we can lead converts to convert
others, "we have a double joy, a double crown.
HOW I USE THE BIBLE WITH CHRISTIAN
WORKERS.
BY REV. DR. JAMES H. BROOKS, OF ST. LOUIS, MO.
I. — Acquaint yourself with the Bible.
To use the Bible efficiently in your work, you must first be
acquainted with it. Jesus says (John v.39) ^^Search the Scriptures,"
implying that you must go down beneath the surface to discover
the depths of the riches of the wisdom ot God. In Acts xvii. 1 1
it is written, " These were more noble than those in Thessalonica."
Notice the stamp of nobility w^hich God recognizes. Is it nobility
of birth ? social station ? wealth ? learning ? No ! These were
noble men and women, "in that they received the Word with all
readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily whether these
things were so." That is the title to nobility in Cod's estimation.
Last winter in St. Louis, when the snow was deep, a gentleman on
leaving a house one night to enter his sleigh dropped a diamond
ring. It sank in the snow. No casual search for it would answer.
He at once placed near the spot a large box, hired the policeman
to keep watch during the night, and at the early dawn made
persistent search until he found it. He did this because it was
something precious in his estimation. But what is a diamond
compared with the riches of grace and glory which will be found
in this blessed book ? Seek this acquaintance because, (i) By it
"we are born again : Jas. i. 18 ; i Peter i. 23. (2) It makes clean :
John XV. 3. (3) It builds up. Paul says to the elders at Ephesus,
68 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
" The Word is able to build you up and give you an inheritance
among them which are sanctified." Also, i Peter ii. 2. (4) It
sanctifies and saves. Jesus says (John xvii. 17), " Sanctify them
through thy truth ; thy Word is truth." So Paul, 2 Thes. ii. 13.
(5) It accomplishes God's will: Isaiah v. lo-ii ; Jer. xxiii. 29.
(6) It is all powerful. 2 Cor. x. 4. In Ephesians vi. 17, the
one weapon given for attack upon the foe is the " Sword of the
Spirit, which is the Word of God." (7) It is all sufficient, as Jesus
declares. Luke vi. 31, and in John xv. 10-13, we are told " He
that believeth not God hath made him a liar." Why ? Simply
'* because he believeth not the record which God gave of his Son."
2. — All Scripture is of God: 2 Tim. iii. 16. From the first
word of Genesis to the last word of Revelation, all is inspired : 2
Peter i. 19-21. " We have a more sure word." More sure in one
sense than the brightest flashes of glory that were ever seen upon
the Mount of Transfiguration. A great many people think
prophecy is a dark place. God says here, it is " a light which
shines in a dark place." They " spake as they were moved," not
as they thought, not as they imagined, but as they were "moved by
the Holy Ghost." Hence Jesus in His charge to His disciples.
Matt. X. 19-20, said : " It is not ye that speak but the Spirit of your
Father which speaketh in you." See also Acts iii. 21 ; iv. 25 ; 2
Samuel xxiii. 2.
Moreover the Scripture is called : (i) The oracles of God ; Rom.
iii. 1-2. (2) The word of God: Mark vii. 13. (3) The word of
the Lord: Acts viii. 25, (4) The word of Truth: 2 Cor. vi. 7.
(5) The word of Life : John vi. 68. (6) The word of Christ ; Col.
iii. 16. (7) The word of Faith : Rom. x. 8-9.
1 want to press this text home upon any unsaved friends. The
Word is nigh you to-night ; nearer than when St. Paul wrote these
verses.- An insane woman had shut herself in a room with a little
child till both were nearly dead. When we burst into the room
we found the child laying on the bed able only to whisper, "water,
water." When her little trembling hands pressed the goblet to her
lips she was scarcely able to hold it ; but, as it refreshed her, she
seized it with a strong, nervous grasp. When your perishing,
thirsty soul receives the word of faith, and not the strength of
your grasp on it, but the divine power of refreshing Word will
give consolation and strength.
3. — All Scripture is about Christ ; John v. 39-46. He does not
say, Search part of them. Again read Luke iv. 21 ; also Luke
xxiv. 25-27. Now observe, that beginning at Moses and all the
prophets he expounded concerning Himself; Luke xxiv. 32. I do
not wonder that their hearts burned within them. Many of the
hearts of God's people have burned within them when they have
found Christ in the Old Testament, where they never thought of
discovering him before. In Luke xxiv. 44-45 he says, '^All things
are written there about Me," in those three great divisions of the
Old Testament. Look at what is said in Matt. i. 22-23. Now
turn to Isaiah vii. 14. A still more emphatic proof is found in
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 69
Matt. ii. 13-15, in the light of which read Hosea xi. i ; Acts xvii.
2-3. He did not reason with them out of human science, human
logic, or human learning, but out of the Old Testament Scriptures.
Remember this when you are attacked as Christian workers by
fallible science ; and never study the Bible in the light of science,
but study science in the light of the Bible. If you want to make
efficient workers, build not on a metaphysical basis, but on the
divine interpretation of God's blessed word. Apollos was mighty
here ; Acts xviii. 28. In the last chapter of Acts, 23d verse, we
see Paul occupied all day with the Old Testament Scriptures.
How many of us find enough in the Old Testament to occupy us
all day ? Mr. Whittle told me last summer of an unlettered man
who had studied the Bible until he had become convinced, without
any outside suggestions, that the last clause of Romans viii. i, did
not belong there. I believe that man was taught that by the Holy
Spirit.
4. — All Scripture is for ourselves: Rom. xv. 4; i Cor. iv. 2.
Believe and act as if you believed that the word of God is for you ;
become acquainted with its precious words, and gently lead the
lost into the palace of God : i Thess. ii. 13. The poor Empress
Carlotta had escaped from her palace. Her physician knew that
a rude shock would dethrone forever her tottering reason. Knowing
her fondness for flowers, he scattered them in her pathway, and
she, charmed like a child, was safely led back again. If you want
to become efficient workers for the Master, seek for and strew the
beautiful flowers of Scripture in the paths of those who have
wandered, 'and lure them back to God.
5. — Cherish as Christian workers a feeling of dependence on the
Holy Spirit. In John vii. 38, 39, and Acts i. 8, Jesus inculcates
this dependence upon his disciples. In Acts vi. 5, Stephen is
*' full of the Holy Ghost," and in 8th verse, we find him " full of
power." We also receive the spirit of adoption : Rom. viii. 15,
and Gal. iv. 6. Until with child-like confidence we know God as
our Father, we cannot be efficient workers. Little May Newton,
three years old, in her father's arms, fired the explosion which
opened Hell Gate to commerce. And the child of God who is
filled with His spirit finds nothing impossible to him : 2 Tim. i. 7.
6. — To become efficient workers, make use of prayer in connection
with the Word : Matt. xxi. 21 ; Luke xi. 9 ; John xiv. 13, and
xvi. 24. What hath God wrought in answer to prayer: Jas.v. 17, 18.
7. — In your work think of the value of the soul : Matt. xvi. 26 ;
xviii. 10, II, 14 ; and of the Lord's approval: 2 Cor. v. 9.
7© NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS,
A HELP TO READ THE ENGLISH BIBLE.
It is not generally known that in the Bibles of the Americai>
and British Bible Societies, and also in those of some publishing;
houses, at least three different names of God in the Old Testament.
are indicated by a difference of type.
Let any one read the Bible with a knowledge of the meaning of
these names, and of the hint given in the kind of type, and many
passages will shed forth more light. Especially will this be found'
true of many psalms and prophecies wherein different persons are
heard either as speaking or as spoken to, as in Ps. ii. and ex., and
in Is. vi. The full force of certain quotations or allusions in the
New Testament will then be felt ; and the identity of Christ with
the God of the Old Testament will be clearly proven.
Elohim is the general name of God as God. By it He is rela-^
ted to Creation and Providence. It is the plural of El which ra-
dically signifies force or strength. El as a name of God is often
used in poetry, and elsewhere usually with an adjective or epithet..
The plural form suggests a fulness of powers, though scholars
differ as to its origin and import. Kindred to these two names,
are two more Eloah and Elah, the latter being Chaldee, and all
these are translated by the one name God.
The name Jehovah is explained in Ex. iii. 13-15, vi. 1-8, Rev. i.
4. Jehovah is God as the eternal unchanging One. His special
relations under this name are to grace and redemption. He is
the God who promises and covenants. Being the everlasting
God He will keep the everlasting covenant, no matter how many
centuries of seeming forgetfulness and delay, or apparent impossi-
bilities come between the promise and the fulfilment.
As Jehovah He is the God of Israel.
" Jehovah is thy Elohim."
Jah is a contraction of Jehovah.
The name Adonai or Adon signifies Lord, Master, Owner..
Adon is rarely used for God and is applied generally to men. Un-
der the name Adonai, God is related to His people as one who
owns and disposes, judges and delivers, rebukes and helps, and
all, it might be said, because they are His possession through
redemption.
This name is peculiarly illustrated by what Jesus has done for
and is to the Church as His Body, His Bride, His Servants, His
House, His Own. He has all power and is Head over all things
to the Church, and He is the Saviour of the body. In brief. He
is "our Lord Jesus Christ." On comparing Ps. ex. i with Rev^
iii. 21 ; and Isa. vi. i with John xii. 41, and on reading what fol-
lows in that psalm and in that prophecy, it is evident that Jesus
is the Adonai, and as the Adonai He is addressed by the name
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. Jl
fehvovah, and Jehovah is the Elohim. Exod. xxxiv. 23. Amos
V. 16.
The following is the help to recognize each name :
LORD -^Jehovah. Lord=Adonai or Adon.
GOD— Jehovah. God=Elohim, Eloah, El, &c.
Lord GOD=^Adonai Jehovah.
Lord GOD the God of Israel —
The Adon, Jehovah Elohim of Israel. Ex. xxxiv. 23.
" Trust ye in Jehovah forever, for in J ah Jehovah is a rock of
ages." Is. xxvi. 4. W. J. E.
A HOUSE OF MANY MANSIONS.
RE7. A. N. SOMERVILLE.
The Bible may oe compared to a magnificent edifice that tooK
sixteen centuries to build. Its architect and builder is God.
Like the beautiful world, the work of the same author, it bears on
it everywhere the impress of a hand divine. The majestic tem-
ple contains sixty-six chambers, capacious, yet in size unequal, —
the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments. Each of its
thirty-one thousand one hundred and seventy-three verses is a
stone, a beam, a panel of the building, which is a temple more
glorious far than that of Solomon or of Zerubbabel, with their
hewn stones from Lebanon, their pillars of cedar, their doors of
olive, their floors, walls and ceiling overlaid with fine gold of
Parodim, their holy places, their courts, their porticos, and gates.
No portion of this wonderful structure will the Lord suffer to be
mutilated or defiled.
Within the sacred enclosure dwells the whole family of God on
earth. The Bible is the home of the redeemed below. When
the Lord Jesus was departing from the world, He said, " In My
Father's house are many mansions ; if it were not so I would
have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." That house is
the temple in heaven above, whence the entrant shall go no more
out, and where Christ's friends abide as priests to God for ever-
more. But the Bible is the " house of many mansions" prepared
tor Jesus' disciples on earth. Here they have their residence ;
here they are fed ; here they are strengthened, comforted and
blessed ; here they are nurtured for immortality.
The Bible is not merely the dwelling-place of God's people, it
is the chosen abode of God Himself. Would you have fellow-
ship with the Father ? you will be sure to find Him within the
precincts of this holy house. Shall we take advantage of the
King's permission and step inside ? We approach by the beauti-
ful garden of Eden, with its innocent flowers, its groves and lucid
streams. The first part of the building, that of highest antiquity,
bears the name of the Chambers of Law and Justice. These are
72 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
five in number, the books of Moses. One of these, is a sort oi
vestibule to the others, and resembles a long gallery hung with
portraits and pictorial scenes of surpassing interest, mementos ol
persons and events that had place before a stone of the building
was laid — such figures as those of Abel and Enoch, Noah, Abra-
ham, Hagar^ Sarah, Jacob, Esau, and Joseph, and such scenes as
Paradise and the Flood, the Departure from Ur of the Chaldees,
the Tent-door at Mamre, the Flaming Cities of the Plain, the Of-
fering of Isaac, Rebecca at the Well, and the Governor of Egypt,
weeping on the neck of his Brethren. Thence we pass through
an extensive range of imposing apartments, the Chambers of His-
toric Record. These comprise the library of the edifice, and in
them are laid up the Church's archives for more than a thousand
years. These rooms are twelve in number, and stretch from
Joshua to Esther. Then we come to a wide space called the
gymnasium of the building, or the saints exercising ground, the
Book of Job. Entering right of this, we find ourselves in the Mu-
sic Gallery of the Psalms, the orchestra of the house, where dwell
all the sons and daughters of song, with cymbal, trumpet, psal-
tery and harp. Issuing thence we pass at once into the Chamber
of Commerce, the Book ol Proverbs ; not far from which is the
Penitentiary of the place, where sorrowful bankrupts and other
defaulters may remain for a time with profit — the Book of Eccle-
siastes. A little further on, we open into a tiny parlor in the
midst of larger rooms — the chamber of sympathy with mourners
— the Book of Lamentations. Interspersed among all these, the
eye is regaled with such delightful conservatories of flowers as
the books of Ruth and of the Song of Solomon. And, next, we
come to a noble suit of lofty apartments, some of' which are of
great capacity and are laid out with extraordinary splendor, no
less than seventeen in number. These are the Halls of Ancient
Prophecy, and follow in grand succession from Isaiah to
Malachi.
Thence we pass to the portion of the edifice of more modern
construction, and we enter four spacious chambers of peculiar
beauty. These are of marble far fairer than e'er was taken from
the quarries of Paros, Pentelicus, or Carara ; chambers, of which
one does not know to admire more the simplicity or exquisite
finish. At once the walls arrest us. On them we see not golden
reliefs of palm-trees, lilies, pomegranates, and cherubim ; but four
full-length portraits of the Lord of the building Himself, drawn by
the Holy Spirit's inimitable hand. These are the Books of the
Four Evangelists. Stepping onward, our ears are saluted by the
loud sounds of machinery in motion ; and entering a long apart-
ment, we find ourselves face to face with wheels and shafts and
cranks and pinions, whose motive power is above and out of sight,
and which will bring on changes all the world over. This is the
Chamber of Celestial Mechanics — the great workroom of the build-
ing— the Book of Acts. Leaving it we are conducted into the
stately Halls of the Apostolic Epistles, no fewer than twenty-one
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
73
in range. The golden doors of fourteen of these are inscribed
with the honorable name of the Apostle to the Gentiles, those of
the seven others with the names of James and Peter and John and
Jude. Within these halls the choicest treasures of the Lord are
stored.
And last of all we arrive at that mysterious gallery where brilli-
ant lights and dark shadows so curiously interchange, and where
in sublime emblems, the history of the Church of Jesus is unveiled
till the Bridegroom come — the grand Apocalypse. And now we
have reached the utmost extremity of the building. Let us step
out on the protecting balcony and look abroad.
Yonder, beneath us, is a fair meadow, through which the pure
Kiver of the Water of Life is winding its way ; on either side of
which stands the Tree of Life, with its twelve manner of fruits and
its beautiful leaves for the healing of ithe nations. And in the
distance, high on the summit of the everlasting hills, the city, all
of gold, bathed in light and quivering with glory — the new Jeru-
salem ; its walls of jasper, its foundations of precious stones, its
angel-guarded gates of pearl ; the city that needs no sun, no moon,
*' for the glory of the Lord doth lighten it, and the Lamb is the
light thereof!"
Oh ! let us make this beloved house our home. Let us make
haste, with our little children in either hand and with all our kin-
dred at our back, to enter its portal. But of one thing make sure ;
see that you ask and obtain the great Interpreter, who waits at
the gate. Himself to lead you in anr^ ^ike you all over the building.
Say to Him whose name is the Cumforter, the Spirit of Truth,
reverently and with faith, " Lord, open Thou mine eyes, that I
may behold wondrous things out of Thy law ;" and, oh ! let it be
yours also to seek that the millions of India, China, of dark Africa,
and all America, parents and little children alike, and every
islander of the sea, may enjoy the advantages that you possess ;.
that they may have their home with you in this *' house of many
mansions," provided for the faint and weary here till they have a
place with you hereafter in the ^ther's house above.
BIBLE READING.
BY REV. J. H. VINCENT, D.D.
Bible Reading in Public — i. The Church should place a
higher estimate upon the public reading of God's word. It should
be considered a part of divine worship. Well trained and res-
pectful people never enter church during the "prayer." Why
should they have less reverence for the reading of God's word ?
2. The pews should always be supplied with Bibles', that the
people may follow the minister when he reads or join with him
in responsive reading. ♦
3. The minister should read with great distinctness and impres-
74 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
siveness, that the whole congregation may understand and be in-
terested.
4. A brief invocation at the opening of the Bible might produce
a salutary impression upon the congregation.
5. In responsive reading it is not necessary that ttie congrega-
tion should read in perfect harmony. Let each individual read
aloud for himself and fix his mind on what he reads. Exact har-
mony is not a necessity, and there is danger of losing the senti-
ment in one's sohcitude to *' keep with the rest."
True Methods of Associated Bible Reading. — i. Read the-
Bible in the family. Hold "family worship." Have a large
Bible. Read consecutively, or topically, or in connection with
the current Sunday-school lesson. Read responsively. Give
every member of the family a Bible to use at this service.
2. Study the Bible in the family. Hold a little home schcx)!
every Sabbath. The mother and the little ones with a good series
of Bible pictures, the father and the larger children with some
special theme to be examined — these form beautiful domestic
pictures, and the work accomplished is immortal.
3. Let those members of the household upon whom responsihi-^
lity rests the most heavily unite in searching the Bible as a means
of special grace. A husband and his wife spent an hour in col-
lecting from a single book in the New Testament — one of the
epistles — every phrase or statement which indicated the possibil-
ities of religious experience. The time passed by swiftly, and.
when they kneeled together to ask of God the blessing of which
they had been reading there came upon them a baptism ot
power. What a saving of '' wear and tear" in every day life, what,
conciliatory temper, what patience, what forbearance, what do-
mestic love and peace might thus be won from the Spirit by
means of the word of God.
4. Use the Bible in the prayer. meeting and in the class-meeting.
Look less at self and more at Christ as he is revealed in his word-
Forget self and remember Him. Forget the past and look at the
glorious promises and possibilities which shine out of the Scrip-
tures. Thus, as the people of God muse on the truth, the fire
will burn. The open Bible is to-day one of the great needs of the
social meetings of the Church.
5. A concerted scheme for Bible reading in a whole Church may
be prepared and urged by the pastor. The pulpit, the prayer-
meeting, the family altar, the closet, the Sunday-school, and the
special Bible reading meetings, may be united in a plan for read-
ing certain portions of the great book during the year. This co-
operation will inspire many to enter upon the service and to con-
tinue in it.
6. As frequently as possible turn the tide of casual conversation
into scripture currents. Where " two or three are gathered to-^
gether" by circumstances, easily and without violence lead them
toward the word, and let the meeting be "-in His name." Thus
: our " speech be with grace, seasoned with salt," and our " con-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 75
versation," in the accepted use of that term, be *' in heaven."
7. Introduce Bible readings, as widely as possible : —
(i.) Parlor Bible readings, where friends meet by special invita-
tion to spend an hour or two in the study of some special Bible
chapter, book, or topic.
(2.) Church Bible readings where in large numbers believers come-
together to look at Christ in his own word. The Chautauqua
" Eventide Conferences " are of this character.
The Bible classes of the Sunday-school may frequently resolve
themselves into meetings for Bible readings in the line of the day's
lesson, thus promoting spiritual results, and substituting edifica-
tion for discussion and controversy.
Bible Readings. — There are many forms which this delightful
service of the modern Church may take. Let me indicate a few
of them :
1. Expository Bible readings. The minister often gives these
in his reading of the regular Bible " lesson" for the morning. The
same plan may be followed at the " Bible reading" on a week
evening, whether conducted by minister or layman. The gift of
exposition should be cultivated by all the people. These exposi-
tory readings may take the form of a conversation, a verse being;
read, and opportunity given- to all to make remarks upon it.
2. Elliptical or mutual readings. Let all sit down with open>
Bibles. One of the company asks a question, to which the rest
give answer by simply reading the verse or a portion of the verse.
This resolves itself into an elliptical reading, and not by any means,
a drill or recitation.
For example, we take up Paul's letter to the Philippians at the
first chapter. All have Testaments open, and the reading goes,
on much in the following way : —
Leader^ Two persons are here named —
Class. Paul and Timotheus.
Leader. They are called —
Class. The servants of Jesus Christ.
Leader. Paul and Timotheus address this letter—
Class. To saints.
Leader. To what saints ?
Class. All the saints in Christ which are at Philippi.
Leader. What officers among the saints are here mentioned T
Class. Bishops and Deacons.
Leader. What two things does Paul invoke upon them ?
Class. Grace be unto you, and peace.
Leader. From whom come grace and peace ?
Class. From God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.^
Now, without degenerating into discussion, and without any
speeches at all, definitions may be given of the words " servants,"
" saints," *' bishops," " deacons," " Philippi" may be located, and
all this will require but a little time, and it is little more than an
elliptical or interrogative reading : but the attention of everybody '
is held, and a whole book may be read in this manner to the profit
of all. This is the sirnn'^^ct form of Bible reading.
Jb NOTES FOR Biiil-Ji KiiADiiNuo.
^. Random readings. Gather texts. Read at random. Pickup
a verse here and a verse there in the Bible and a third farther on
as you wander through these wide fields of history, and poetiy,
and doctrine. Gather flowers of instruction and promise, until
you will form a boquet such as you collect in the fields on a morn-
ing's walk — fresh and fragrant. This plan is very simple, and
never fails to gratify and profit.
4. Topical readings. Select a theme — a word, a doctrine —
-and bring everything to be found in Scripture to bear upon it.
Use the " Concordance" freely. Use a good " Bible Index." Study
the marginal references. Consult the texts employed in a good
•'' Cyclopedia" — such, for example, as M'Clintock and Strong's.
Explore particular chapters and books of the Bible for yourself
upon it. Have these passages classified according to a good
analysis of the subject, which you may make for yourself; (i.) The
topic defined in Scripture ; (2.) The topic proved in Scripture ; (3.)
The topic commended or insisted upon ; (4.) The topic illustrated ;
(5.) The topic harmonized with other themes. Let the various
texts be indicated on slips of paper, to be distributed among those
who will read distinctly and loud enough to be heard by every
body. Having written such text slips, verify them to see that no
blunders occur when they come to be read.
I have spoken above of the personal exploration of the Bi'ilefor
proof texts. This is better than to depend upon Concordances
and Indexes. A Sunday-school class or a company ot friends
may agree to divide the books of the Bible among themselves
and explore them for passages upon specified topics. A com-
plete analysis of every book in the Bible is thus possible.
5. Comparative Bible readings. Take the account of a miracle,
for example. Dividing the meeting into sections, let each section
open one of the evangelists, and as the successive unfoldings of
tJhe miracle are named see what statement the several writers
make concerning it. Do the same with parables. In the same
way compare Daniel and Paul, Paul and James, Moses and David,
€tc., in reference to great doctrinal and practical teachings.
6. Memory Bible readings. The word should be hidden in the
heart. It is a wholesome exercise to recall texts which have been
already committed to memory. " Promise meetings" are common.
A promise is quoted, then another, and another. This plan may
be carried further. We may apply it to Bible topics — the " work
of the Spirit," the *' pardon of sin," the " fruits of faith," etc., etc.
It is desirable in all such memory readings to be accurate, there-
fore any mistakes in quotation should be at once corrected, kindly
but faithfully. Many so called " familiar texts" are usually mis-
quoted. We should seek accuracy in using the words of God.
** Promise meetings" should be held for collecting promises under
■special heads, that is, promises of God to the penitent ; to the
tempted ; to the poor ; to the faithful : to the self-sacrificing ; to
those who win souls, etc., etc.
7. Polyglot Bible readings. Language is the medium of thought.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
77
Ilnman language is the medium of divine thought. God adapts
J. mseli to our infirmities, and has put his great thoughts into the
Irail medium of human speech, and adapting these thoughts to
many nations, he has employed different languages, and made it
possible for men, as they need it, to translate from tongue to
tongue this precious revelation. The Bible was given in Hebrew,
in Chaldee, in Greek. It has since been translated into more
than one hundred and fifty languages and dialects. In this effort
to convey divine thought to the human understanding,all languages
liave been carefully and critically studied. We know that in one
language shades of meaning are detected which others faiil to give,
and it is not only curious, but profitable to trace the varying in-
terpretation in several translations, which, without affecting the
radical sense, give most beautiful and valuable shades of thought.
Therefore, for a profitable Bible reading, let as many versions be
brought together as possible, and let them be carefully examined.
Take five verses for example, and collect several English versions.
Then read the same in Spanish, the French, the Italian, the
Modern Syriac, etc., etc. Thus the linguistic ability of a community
may be utilized in the study of God's word.
8. Bible Experience Meetings. Personal experience may
furnish some illustration or exposition of a passage. Every life
has its own interpretations of the divine word. Every soul has-
had scyne experience in which a text of Scripture has found a sol-
vent. Some verse has come with peculiar power at a particular
time in a human life. A lady told me that on one occasion when
crossing the plains — long before the railroad was built — the whole
company was in danger from hostile Indians ; when night came
the emigrants were forbidden to have any light in the encampment.
In her waggon tent, (as it always had been her custom to read a
verse of Scripture before retiring,.) after having opened her Bible^
she hurriedly lighted a match, and her eye rested upon this text :
" The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear
Him, and delivereth them." She said, " This text always meant
more to me after that, for I read it, and lay down without fear or
danger, and slept as sweetly as a child throughout the night."
Let these readings of the word in the light of the soul's experience
find a place in the social circle. By this means the Church class-
meeting becomes a source of instruction. Said good Father
Reeves, '* the model class-leader" of England : " Give your ex-
perience in Bible language."
In Bible readings it may be well, occasionally, to use the black-
board, or to prepare a scheme by means of the papyrograph
process for distribution. On this scheme, appropriate verses of
hymns may be distributed to be sung during the service.
78 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS,
BIBLE STUDY.
As much attention has lately been drawn to the subject of Bible
reading and marking, may I submit to your readers one or two
thoughts on the matter ? I used to pick and choose what I thought
\were nice bits, but somehow I did not seem to profit much and
ithen there was the danger of attaining one-sided views of truth.
I was, thank God, led to see this, and have for some time in read-
ing tried to grasp the scope and purpose of the various books of
the Bible ; and in reading the Epistles, to watch and keep in
mind the line of argument adopted by the writers.
It is only lately that I have finished reading the Epistles of
Paul to the Ephesians and Hebrews. I read them consecutively,
and they seemed under God to open up in a manner I never
realized before. Permit me to give you a skeleton of each ; —
Ephesians. — Keyword, " /«."
Our position ^^ in ChnsV'=Ssiiety. (i. ii.)
Our possession, *' Christ in us"=Power (for) (iii.)
" Walking,'' and " Standing.'' (iv. vi.)
Paul knew it was no use to tell the poor weak one to walk with-
out showing him first the full meaning of " Abide in Me, and I in
you," and " He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth
forth much fruit." It is no use to tell the poor trembling one to
quench all the fiery darts without showing him in whom he has
to be strong, and what armour he has to be clothed in.
Hebrews. — Keyword, " Better.".
The Person of Christ, (i. vii.)
Christ as Son of God, and much better than angels, (i.)
Christ, although better, yet made for a little while lower, than
they, as Son of Man. (ii.)
Christ better than Moses, as a son is than a servant, (iii.)
Christ better than Joshua, (iv.)
Christ's Priesthood shown as better than the Levitical. (v.)
Christ better than Aaron, (vii.)
New covenant better than the old. (viii.)
Christ's work better than that done under the old covenant.
(ix , X.)
Faith and its fruits, (xi.)
Exhortation, (xii.)
Note the twelve " Let us" and the seven ** once" (ix., x.) in this
glorious epistle. May God bless his own Word ; and He will
when we read it as He gives it. F. G., 20th Hussars.
^«WAi^d V\J^\. iJi^^Xt X\4jAWA«\\i«k4<
/^
BIBLE STUDY.
The man who first seeks Divine guidance will not undervalue
subsequent careful and critical study. The Holy Spirit blesses
the industrious, not the slothful man. He guides in study, not in
the neglect of study. But the guidance should be asked for at the
start, not expected as a matter of course by him who fails to re-
quest it. The assurance is that our Heavenly Father will " give
the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him." *' For every one that
asketh receiveth ; and he that seeketh findeth ; and to him that
knocketh it shall be opened." Not until a man has asked and
received the guidance of the Holy Ghost is he ready to begin the
study of a passage of Scripture which he is set to teach. Then
he may examine the Word itself. Afterwards he may safely con-
sult the best human helps to its understanding and applications."
God best understands His own Word. He is first to be looked to
to make it clear to him who would teach it to others. — S.S.TiHias.
KEY NOTES TO THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE.
OLD TESTAMENT.
1. Genesis. The book of the beginnings.
2. Exodus. The book of redemption — types.
3. Leviticus. The book of sacrifice and priesthood.
4. Numbers. The book of wilderness walk.
5. Deuteronomy. The book of conduct for Canaan.
6. Joshua. The book of warfare in Canaan.
7. Judges. The book of failure in Canaan.
8. Ruth. The book of typical prophecy.
g. I Samuel. The book of royal government in the hands of
Saul.'
10. 2 Samuel. The book of royal government in the hands of
David.
11. I Kings. The book of royal government in the hands of
Solomon and successors.
12. 2 Kings. The book of royal government in its decline.
13. I Chronicles. The book of God's earthly elect connected
with the Throne and the Ark.
14. 2 Chronicles. The book of God's earthly government in
the house of David.
15. Ezra. The book of ecclesiastical history upon the return
:from Babylon,
16. Nehemiah. The book of civil condition, upon the return
"from Babylon.
8o NOTES FOK BIBLE READINGS.
17. Esther. ThebookofGod's secret government towards Israel.
18. Job. The book of individual discipline for the learning of
self.
19. Psalms. The book of experimental holy song.
20. Proverbs. The book of wisdom for the world.
21. Ecclesiastes. The book of one who found the world too
small for his heart.
22. Canticles. The book of one who found the object too great
for his heart.
23. Isaiah. The book of comprehensive and magnificient
prophecy.
24." Jeremiah. The book of judgment upon Judah, nations, and
latter-day blessing.
25. Lamentations. The book of godly feelings in view of Israel's
sorrows.
26. Ezekiel. The book of judgment upon Israel and connected
nations with future blessing of Israel.
27. Daniel. The book of Gentile political history.
28. Hosea. The book of Israel's moral condition — past, present,
and future.
29. Joel. The book of universal judgment and latter-day
blessing for Judah.
30. Amos. The book of certain judgment upon the Gentiles
and all Israel, with future restoration of the latter.
31. Obadiah. The book of judgment Upon Edom.
32. Jonah. The book of judgment upon Nineveh, and its
repentance.
33. Micah. The book of iudgment and future blessing oi
Jerusalem and Samaria.
34. Nahum. The book of utter judgment upon proud Assyria.
35. Habakkuk. The book of Jewish spiritual exercise.
36. Zephaniah. The book of unsparing judgment and blessing
upon the remnant of Israel.
37. Haggai. The book of encouragement in rebuilding the Temple.
38. Zechariah. The book of "the last days" connected with
Israel.
39. Malachi. The book of Jehovah's last pleadings with Israel.
To understand the Old Testament, consider Christ and Israel as
\,\e centre and key.
NEW TESTAMENT.
40. Matthew. Christ, Son of Abraham, and David's Son and
Lord according to promise.
41. Mark. Christ the servant of His Father, and meeter of
man's need.
42. Luke. Christ the Son of Man in His service amongst men,
43. John. Christ the Son of God in the moral glory of His
person and ways.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. 8l
44. Acts. Christ in heaven, and the energy of the IJoly Ghost
on earth.
45. Romans. Christianity unfolded.
46. I Corinthians. Church order and discipline.
47. 2 Corinthians. Christian ministry and superiority over all
circumstances.
48. Galatians. Christian blessing contrasted with law.
49. Ephesians. Christ the measure of Christian standing and
blessing.
50. Philippians. Christian experience.
51. Colossians. Christ and his glories — the Church's Head.
52. I Thessalonians. Christ's coming for the eternal blessedness
of His people.
53. 2 Thessalonians. Christ's coming for the eternal judgment
of unbelievers.
54. I Timothy. Church order according to God.
55. 2 Timothy. Church disorder and the individual pathway.
56. Titus. Christian qualifications for ministry, and godly
conduct.
57. Philemon. Christian love counting upon love between
brother and brother.
58. Hebrews. Christ the Apostle, Sacrifice, Priest, and Witness.
59. James. Christian morality in and out of the Church and
Synagogue.
60. I Peter. God's righteous government in relation to the
saints.
61. 2 Peter. God's judgment upon the public Christian
profession.
62. I John. Christ the eternal life and power of communion
with God.
63. 2 John. Christ and the truth the safeguard against heresy.
— International Lesson Monthly.
THE TRUE SPIRIT OF BIBLE STUDY.
1. The spirit of implicit y^;*//^, recognizing it as the word of God^
who is himself the truth.
2. The spirit of self-appropriation, accepting it as the word of
God to ME. He speaks to each soul in the Bible as though that
soul were alone in the universe.
3. The spirit- of cordial assent to all that it teaches, whether the
truth be clear or • obscure to the understanding, palatable or
unpalatable to the moral taste.
4. The spirit of profound reverence for the book and its contents,
because of him who is its author, substance and inspiration. The
holy oil in the Jewish tabernacle was never put to a profane use
under pain of death. Exodus xxx. 32, 33. The old Jews in their
private houses never placed another book upon, the Bible. They
washed their hands before touching it. They refused to sit on the
6
82 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
bench where it lay, and they kissed it as they opened and closed it.
Shall the Christian revere less his larger and fuller Bible, with its
wealth of Gospel truth ?
5. The spirit of prompt and perfect obedience to all that it com-
mands ; the obedient spirit is the receptive spirit. Matt. v. 8.
6. The spirit of fervent believing prayer, inspired by a sense of
need. As we open the word we should" open the heart. We should
pray before we study. We should turn the very Scripture we read
into a prayer. Moses prayed when the ark was taken up or set
down. Paul prayed when he opened, and when he closed his
epistles. Since the Spirit of God alorie knoweth the deep things
of God, we should call upon God for his light when we look into
his word.
7. The spirit of patient waiting for the divine spiritual interpreta-
tion. The Spirit of God moves in Scripture. Words which mean
little to the carnal mind are weighty with significance to him who
is spiritually enlightened. Lines which are dull to the superficial
and worldly student, are brilliant to the persistent, diligent, and
devout student, who, on bended knee, looks into the mysteries of
the word under the illumination of the Spirit. We never know
what unfolding of truth is to be made by the divine Spirit.
Therefore we should ponder long and patiently, reading as the
eunuch read, waiting for some Philip to come by the divine order
for our assistance.
8. The spirit of delight in it, as the divine revelation of wisdom,
love, and power — the delight which comes from a thirst, a taste, a
genius for it. An old writer says : ''As a bar of iron by long lying
in the fire waxeth red hot, so that soul which daily employeth itself
in reading and meditating on the word of God, groweth to be
spiritual and divine, and is kindled in a fire of holy devotion and
love by the word .of God." Let the word be precious to thy soul.
J. H. Vincent, D. D.
■*N0TES^F0R^B1BLEMEADINGS4:-
jcrrtr ai ^0!tr.
FURNISHED FOR WORI.
Text ; I Tim. iv: I2 to i6.
1. Character before work. — 12th
verse : " Example of believers in Word,
Life, Love, Spirit, Truth, Purity."
Titus i. 7 to 9 ; ii. ii to 15 ; i Thes.
iv. I ; 2 Cor, vi. 3-4.
2. Reading, as in 13th verse 2 Tim.
iii, 15 to 17 ; Rom, xv. 4; John v. 39.
3. Following Reading (i. e. study
drawing from the Scriptures for ourselves,
the truth) Then exhortation ; the ap-
plication of the truth ; Titus i. 9 ; Heb.
iii. 13 ; 2 Thess. iii. 12.
4. Doctrine. — Intelligent exhorta-
tion, based upon a proper reading, will
recognize doctrine, and no relation of
experience is profitable that is not in
accord with sound doctrine; Rom. vi:
17 ; 2 Tim. iv. 3 ; Titus ii. 7; 2 John 9;
Acts ii. 42.
5. Diligence. — 14th verse: "Neglect
not." 2 Tim. iv. 2 and 5 ; i Thes. i. 8;
2 Cor. xi. 26 ; Eccl. xi. 6.
6. Honor the Holy Ghost. — 14th
verse : '" The gift that is in thee," ''which
was given thee." i Cor. xii. 3; Acts,
xix. 2 and 6 ; John xiv. 16 and 17.
7. Consecration. — 15th verse :
** Give thyself wholly to them." Rom.
xii. I. I Cor. vi. 19 and 20.
8.. Watchfulness. — ■16th verse:
*' Take heed" Luke xxi. 36 ; Mark xiii.
33 to 37.
9. Perseverance. — " Continue in
them," John xv. 4, Heb. vi. 11 and 12,
X. 35 to 37-
The last references bringing us back to
the introduction of the text, as enforcing
every admonition :
"till i come."
See 2 Tim. iv. 9, with i Tim. iii. 14
and 15.
HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE.
Object in Study-find Christ, Jno.
V. 39; Luke xxiv, 27, 44; Acts xxviii. 23; 2
Tim, iii. 16; John vi. 63; Ps. cxxxviii. 2;
Johni. I, 14; John iii. u-13, 34.
Life by the Word, James i. 18-21 ; I
Pet. i. 23; Deut. viii, 3; John v. 39; John
vi. 63 ; Psalms cxix. 130. .
Growth, Job xxiii. 12 ; Jer. xv. 16;
John vi. 35 ; Matt, v, 6; 2 Thess. ii, 13 ;
Eph, V. 26,
Power, Isa. xi. 8 ; Ps. cxix. 89 ; John
XV. 7; Eph. vi. 17; Heb. iv. 12 ; Rom. x.
17.
Searching in study, John v. 39; 2 Tim.
ii. 15. Dependence on the Holy Spirit,
John xy, 13; xvi. 26; Jude 20; James i. 5;
I Cor. ii. 9, 10, 12, 13.
With whole mind and heart, i Chron.
xxviii. 9. 2 Chron. xv. 2, Isa. xxvi. 3.
Seek light from any who are taught by
the Spirit. 2 Peter i. 20, 21. i Tim, iv.
13-16.
After such study have clear positive
views, 2 Tim. i. 8-13. Psalms li.12, i 3.
Pray before reading.
Read and pray.
Search and pray.
Review and pray.
Hold fast, 2 Tim. iii. 14-17; iv. 7.
■ Results to be expected from right study
Personality of God, Son, and Holy
Ghost known in the soul.
Fruits of the Spirit in Ufe,
h. m. parsons, d.d.
86
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
HOLY SCRIPTURE.
ITS Inspiration. — 2 Timothy iii. i6,
17 ; 2 Peter i. 20, 21; Romans xv. 4; i
Cor. X. II. Ephesians vi. 17; i Thes. ii.
13-
Its Sufficiency. — Luke xvi. 31 ;
Deut. iv. 2 ; Prov. xxx. 5, 6; Rev. xxii.
17-19.
Its Power. — ^John xv. 3 ; xvii. 17 ;
Eph, V. 26 ; Jer. xxiii. 29 ; Heb. iv. 12 ;
Psalm xix. 7-1 1.
Its Use, and Our Duty Towards
It. — Nahum viii. 8, andix. 2, 3; 2 Chron.
xvii. 9. I Peter iv. 11. Acts xviii. 28, and
xvii. II, 12; 2 Cor. ii. 17; Deut. vi. 6, 7,
and xxix. 29; Col. iii. 16 ; Psalm cxix i,
2, 9, 1 1; Joshua i. 8; Ps.i. 2; i Pet. ii.1,2.
Our Need of Divine Light. —
Psalm cxix. 18 ; Luke xxiv. 45 ; John vi.
63 ; 2 Cor. iii. 5, 6.
Ignorance of Scripture. — Matt.
xxii. 29; John xx. 9; John v. 38; Isaiah viii.
20.
^criptnrtjj.
Ca:rrfullg>
John v: 39
Johniii: 12, 13.
Joshua I. 8.
Psalms cxix: 12.
John xx: 31.
Psalms cxix: 9.
Acts xvii: ii.
Psalms i: 2.
Luke xxiv: 27.
2 Tim iii: 16,17,
Luke xxiv: 45,
James i: 22.
?33' Jo^^ XV. 3 ; xvii. 17. 2 Cor. vii,
I. Eph. V. 26, 27. Psalms cxix. 162,
165. Isaiah xlviii. 18. Jer. x\. 16.
John XV. 11-16. I John i. 1-4.
Would you be Wise? — Read 'The
Word.' Psalms xix. 7; cxix. 98. Prov.
ii. 1-7 , ix. 10. I Cor. ii. 1-16. Col. i.
9; iii. 16. 2 Tim. iii. 15.
Would you know God and have
FELLOWSHIP WITH HiM ? — Read 'The
Word.' Job xxii. 21-30. Prov. ii. 1-5;
viii. 34, 35- John i. i, 14, 18 ; v. 39.
I John v. 30. Prov. vi. 20-22. John
xiv. 23. Phil. iii. 8-1 1.
Would you be strong in the
Lord, and have victory over the
World, the Flesh, and the Devil?
— Read ' The Word.' Psalms xvii. 4.
Prov. ii. 1-8 : vii. 1-5. Matt. iv. 3-10.
Eph. vi. 10-17. I John ii. 14.
Would you b:e a successful Ser-
vant?—Read 'The Word.' Josh. i. 8.
Psalms i. 1-3. 2 Tim. ii. 15 ; iii. 16, 17.
Heb. iv. 12.
*' Let the Word of Christ dwell in you
richly."— Col. iii. 16;
The Teacher. — ^John xiv. 26 ; xv,
26 ; xvi. 13-15. I Cor. ii. 9-13.
THY WORD.
Would you be Saved? — Read 'The
Word.' Luke xvi. 22-31. Acts ii. 14 ;
xiii. 26; Psalms cvii. 20 ; Rom. i. 16.
Would you have Eternal ' Life ?
—Read ' The Word.' John v. 24, 39 ;
James i. 18 ; i Peter i. 21-25 ; John xx.
31-
Would you be Fruitful? — Read
' The Word.' The fruit is Gal. v. 22, 23 ;
Luke viii. 11. Rom. x. 17. Col. i. 3-6,
I Thes. i. 2-10 ; ii. 13. i Peter ii. 2.
Would you be Holy and Happy?
Read 'The Word.' Psalms cxix. 9, 11,
PREACH THE WORD.
1. It is Life. — Phil. ii. 16.
2. It is Light. — Psalms cxix. 105.
3. It is Power, — Rom. i, 16.
4. It is Pure — Psalms cxix, 140.
5. It is unchanging, — Psalms cxix. 89,
6. It searches — Heb. iv. 12.
7. It judges — ^John xii. 48.
THE WORD OF GOD.
I. THE PRECIOUSNESS AND POWER OF
THE WORD. — To what it is compared in
the ;pible itself. — Psa. cxix, 32, 35 ;
Deut. xxxii, 2 ; Psa. xii, 6 ; Isa. Iv, 10,
1 1 ; Psa. xix, ID ; Psa. cxix, 105 ; Psa,
cxix, 127 ; Prov. vi, 23 ; Psa, xix, 10 ;
Psa. cxix, 14, 72; 2 Pet. i, 19; Psa.
cxix, 103 ; Heb. iv, 12 ; Luke viii. ii j
Psa. cxix, 162 ; Jer. xxiii, 29.
NOTES FOR lilBLE READINGS.
87
2. The efficiency of the word.-Fs.
cxix, 130 ; Psa. cxix, 50 ; I Pet. i, 22 ;
Acts xviii, 28 ; Psa. xix, 7 ; Psa. cxix,
II ; Psa. cxix, 99, icx> ; Psa. cxix, 9 ;
ijohnii, 14; John xx, 31 ; John xv,
3 ; Acts XX, 32 ; James i, 21 ; John
xvii, 17 ; 2 Tim. iii, 15-17 ; i Thess. ii,
13 ; Eph. V, 26 ; 2 Pet. i, 4.
3. TRUE USE OF THE WORD. — Mk. iv,
24; Josh, i, 8 ; 2 Tim. ii, 15, 16;
Luke viii, 18; Psa. i, 2, 3; 2 Tim. ii,
23-26 ; Heb. ii, i ; James i, 22 ; 2
Tim. iv, 2-5 ; Deut. xvii, 18-20 ; Psa.
cxix, 54 ; Titus i, 9, 13, 14 ; Acts viii,
27, 28 ; Titus ii, 7, 8 ; Psa. cxix, 18 j
Neh. viii ; Deut. vi, 7-9 ; Luke xxiv,
44, 45; Deut. xxxi, 9-13; Acts xvIii,
26; John v, 39; Josh, viii, 32-35;
Acts xxviii, 23 ; Acts xvii, ii ; 2 Chron.
xvii, 9 ; Ezra vii, 10 ; Deut. vi, 6 ;
Acts viii, 29-31, 35 ; James i, 21 ; 2
Tim. ii, 2.
4. Spirituality essential to the
RIGHT understanding of GoD'S WoRD.
— John iii, 20, 21 ; Psa. xcvii, ii ; i Cor.
xii, 8 ; John v, 44 ; Psa. xxv, 9 ; Matt,
vi, 22 ; John viii, 43, 47 ; John viii, 3 I,
32 ; Eph. i, I 7. ; 2 Cor. iv, 3, 4. ; i
John ii, 20, 27; John vi, 17 ; i Cor. ii.
12-15 ; Psa. cxii, 4 ; 2 Pet. iii, 18.
—Rev. J. H.Vincent, D.D.
"THE WORD OF GOD," HOW
USED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN EFFECTING SALVATION.
1. In Regeneration. — Life springs
from a seed. Of the new life, "the
seed is the Word of God." This seed
must fall into the understanding, Matt.
13 : 23- 2. By it is the new life begot-
ten. James i : 18. 3. Of it is the new
life born, i Pet. I : 23,
Thus it converts the soul. Ps 19 : 7-
And makes wise unto salvation. 2. Tim.
3 •• 13-17.
2. In The Production of Repen-
tance.— The impenitent heart is hard as
a rock. Would you break it ? Jer. xxiii,
29. It is insensible. Would you pierce
it ? Use the sword of the Spirit. Eph. vi,
17 ; Heb. iv, 12. How Peter used it on
the day of Pentecost. Acts ii, 22-36.
See the result in verse 37.
3. In The Production of Saving
Faith. — How is faith imparted? Rom.
x: 17. See the whole chap. Instances,
Acts viii. 35-38 ; xvi: 32-34; xvii. 11- 12.
See also, Jno. XX. 31 ; i Cor. ii. 5.
4. In the Sanctification of the
Believer. — For this Christ prayed. Jno.
xvii. 17-19. It was Paul's doctrine.
Eph. V : 25-27. And Peter's, i Pet. i.
22.
Do we desire the conversion of men,
and their subsequent development of
spiritual character ? How safely, then,
may we rely on the Word of God ? Is.
Iv. lO-II.
—Rev. J. H. Castle, D.D.
,THE WORD OF GOD.
1. Is OF Divide Origin. — It was God
who spoke through all the Prophets.
Heb. I. I. It was God who by His
Spirit inspired the writers of the Scrip-
tures, they were not its authors, it was
God's Word. 2 Pet. i. 21.
At last God spoke Himself. Heb. i. 2.
The Divine mind became incarnate.
John I. I.
2. Hence the Authority of the
Word of God. — When God speaks,
men should hear and obey. We nowhere
read "hear ye the word of Moses, of
Samuel, of David," but "hear ye the
Word of the Lord," Jer. xxii. 29. The
Bible is not a Book of opinions ; it is not
simply true, it is Truth divine, abso-
lute, final. John XVII. 17.
3. The Unspeakable Value of
THIS Word. — " Words " are the me-
dium of communication between mind and
mind, the " Word of God " is the mind of
God. If there be a God it is of the ut-
most importance that we communicated
to man should know what Hi-s mind is
concerning us. It is essential to man's
true life that he should have this mind of
God. Men may exist, but they cannot live
without It. Luke iv. 4.
88
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
4. Some Characteristics of the
Word of God. — It is Divine power to a
divine end — salavtion. Rom. i. 16.
It illumines, Ps. cxix. 130.
It quickens, Ps. cxix. 25.
It cleanses, John' xv. 3.
It emancipates, John xiii. 32.
It is a lamp for stumbling feet, and a
light for dark paths. Ps. cxix. 105.
It is as gentle as the dew or the rain.
Deut. xxxi. 2.
It is a "hammer" for the stubborn.
Jar. xxiii. 29.
Its precepts, supply laws for life.
Its examples, stimulate to holiness.
Its promises, comfort when all else
faiis.
Happy the man who loves the Word
of God. Ps. cxix. 127.
Woe to him who scorns this word, for
it will be his fall. Matt. vii. 24, 29. .
— Thomas W. Handford.
Meditate on the Word of God. — Psa.
1. 2.
Live up to the Word of God. — ^Joshua
i. 8.
THE WORD OF GOD.
For Conversion. — ^James i. 18, 21 ;
I Pet i. 23, 25 J Jno. iii. 5 ; Titus iii.5.
For Cleansing.— John xv, 3 ; Eph.
v. 26 ; Ps. cvii. 20 ; Ps. cxix. 9.
For Growth. — i Pet. ii. 2.
What it is.
It is the sword of the Spirit. — Eph. vi.
17 ; Rev. ii. ,16.
It is the word of life.-^Rev. xix. 15 j
Phil. ii. 16; Deut. viii. 3. •
It is like as a fire and as a hammer
which breaketh the rock in pieces. — -Jer.
xxiii. 29.
It is .a two edged sword. — Heb. iv. 12.
It is the only, but sufficient, ground of
confidence for time or eternity. — ^John x.
28 ; Num. xxiii. 19.
*' Thou hast magnified thy word above
all thy name."
— Col. Burton.
17. For
For
THE WORD OF GOD.
Love the Word of God. — Psa. cxix.
140.
Search the Word of God. — ^John v. 39.
Understand the Word of God. — Lvke
xxiv. 45.
THE BIBLE.
Read the Bible. John v. 39. For it is
God's Book. Isaiah xxxiv. 16.
Obey the Bible, i Peter iv.
it is God's law. Psa. xix. 7.
Love the Bible. Deut, vi. 4-9.
it is God's gift. Ezek. xx, 11.
Trust the Bible. Isa. xxvi. 4. For it is
God's promise. Heb. vi. 13-20.
You are in darkness. Eph. v. 8. It is
your lantern. Psa. cxix. 105-130.
You are in the enemy's land. 2 Cor. iv.
4. It is your sword. Eph. vi. 17.
You are in the midst of sin. John iii.
19. It is your safeguard. Psa. cxix. 9-1 1.
You are exposed to falsehood. John
viii. 44. It is truth. John xvii. 17.
It tells the sinner of a Saviour. Matt. i.
21.
It promises the slave Freedom. John
viii. 32.
It proclaims to the rebel pardon. Isa,
Iv. 6, 7.
It assures the weak of strength. Isa.
XXV. 4.
It guides the lost to heaven. John xiv.
6,
It tells the dead of life. Prov. viii. 35,
Eph. ii. 1-8.
It points the exile to a home. 2 Sam.
xiv. 14.
It offers the weary rest. Matt. xi. 28.
30.
SCRIPTURE EMBLEMS.
1. A lamp, lantern, light. Psa. cxix.
105 ; Prov, vi. 23.
2. A Fire. Jer. xxiii. 29.
3. A Hammer. Jer. xxiii. 29.
4. A Sharp Sword. Eph. vi. 17 ; Heb.
iv. 12.
5. A Graft. James i. 21.
6. A Glass Mirror. James i. 23, 24.
7. Pure Milk, i Pet. ii. 2.
8. The Food of the Soul. Jer. xv. 16.
See the heading of Acts in our Au-
thorized version.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. ^y
€ht ®0rb of €0iJ aittr tht W^nhtlubtx.
THE SAVIOUR--GOD.
EISE, dear soul, behold thy Saviour Acts ix. 3-5.
Seated on the Father's throne ; Rev. iii. 21. .
Object of God's highest favour, John xvii. 4, 5.
See Him, God's beloved Son ! Luke ix. 35.
Once on earth in Bethlehem's manger, Luke ii. 4-7.
As a helpless babe He lay,
God come down from heaven to suffer, Matt. i. 23.
Love to sinners to display. 2 Cor. v. 19.
Sinner, see thy God beside thee, John iv. 6, 7.
In a servant's form come near, Mark ii. 5.
Sitting, walking, talking vv'ith thee ! John ix. 35, 36.
Sinai's mount no longer fear. John i. 1 7.
[See the wondrous God that sought thee, John iv. 4-25.
Sitting on Samaria's well,
•Or in Simon's house, that found thee, Luke vii. 36-50.
Snatched thee from the jaws of hell !
5ee the lonely Man now bending, Mark xiv. 35.
In the lone Gethsemane,
Drops of blood His face besmearing, Luke xxii. 44,
Whilst He groans in agony !]
Onward still to Calvary marching, John xix. 17.
Onward still He speeds His way
«(His own Father's will fufilling), John xviii. ii.
Love to sinners to display.
Sinner, see thy bleeding Saviour Matt, xxvii. 35.
Pierced and nailed to Calvary's tree ;
Sacrifice of sweetest savour ; Luke xxiii. 34-46.
Object of man's enmity ! Luke xxiii. 35,36.
See the sun at noon-day hidden, Luke xxiii. 45.
See the rocks and mountains shake, Matt, xxvii,. 51.
See the Man midst darkness smitten ! Mark xv. 33.
Why did God His Son forsake ! Mark xv. 34.
Sinner, hear the wondrous story, i Cor. xv. 1,2.
Jesus died and rose for thee, I Cor. xv. 3, 4.
<jod in heaven now waits to save thee.
Now believing thou art free.
A.P.C
go NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE SOUL'S CRY AND THE SAVIOUR'S ANSWER.
ARRANGED BY RALPH WELLS.
Lord, be Thou my Helper : Ps. xxx. lo.
Fear not \ I will help thee : Isa. xli. 13.
0 Lord, I am in trouble : Ps. xxxi. 9.
Call Alport Me in the day of trouble^ and I will deliver thee : Ps. I. 15.
Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin : Ps. li. ^
1 will ; he thou clean : Matt, viii, 3.
Keep the door of my lips : Ps. cxli. 3.
I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shall say : Exod. iv. 12.
God be merciful to me a sinner : Luke xviii. 13.
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners : i Tim. i. 15.
What must I do to be saved ? : Acts xvi. 30.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shall be saved : Acts xv. 31.
0 that I knew where I might find Him ! Job xxiii. 3.
Ye shall seek Me and find Me when ye shall search for Me with all your heart
Jer. xxix. 13.
Behold I am vile, what shall I answer Thee ? Job xl. 4.
Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow : Isa. i. 18.
Create in me a clean heart, O God : Ps. v. 10.
A new heart also will I give you : Ezek. xxxvi. 26.
1 am weary with my groaning : Ps. vi. 6.
Cast thy burden upon the Lord : Ps. Iv. 22.
Leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation : Ps. xxvii. 9.
I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee : Heb. xiii. 5.
Who is sufficient for these things ? 2 Cor. ii. 16.
My grace is sufficient for thee : 2 Cor. xii. 9.
My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God : Ps. xlii. 2,
Thine eyes shall see the King in his beauty : Isa. xxxiii. 17.
My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning ; P$.„
xxx. 6.
Thev that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength : Isa. xl. 31.
The terrors of death are fallen upon me : Ps. Iv. 4.
He that believeth on Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live : John xi. 25.
Come, Lord Jesus : Rev. xxii. 20.
Surely I come quickly : Rev. xxii. 20.
THE GOSPEL OF YOUR SALVATION.
Ephesians I. 13,
T
H
HE only true God. — John xvii. 3.
he God of all grace. — i Peter v. 10.
-he only wise God, our Saviour. — Jude 25.
-o ! every one that thirsteth come. — Isaiah Iv. I.
-ear and your soul shall live. — Isaiah Iv. 3.
-ave faith in God. — Mark xi. 22.
E-xcept a man be born again he cannot see the kingdom
-very good gift is from above. — James i. 17.
-ven Etertial Life. — i John ii. 25.
[John iii. 3.
of God.
G
0
S
P
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS. gi
-od is Love. — i John iv. i6.
od who is rich in mercy. — Ephesians ii. 4,
od who hath reconciled us to Himself. — 2 Cor. v. t8.
-ne thing is needful. — Luke x. 42.
-btain salvation. — I Thessalonians v. 9.
-nly believe. — Mark v. 36.
-alvation is come unto the Gentiles. — Romans xi. Ii.
-alvation which is in Christ Jesus. — 2 Timothy ii. 10.
-urely His salvation is nigh. — Psalm Ixxxv. 9.
-eace through the blood of His cross. — Colossians i. 20.
-eace with God. — Romans v. i.
-erfected for ever. — Hebrews x. 14.
E-temal Redemption. — Hebrews ix. 12.
-xceeding great and precious promises, — 2 Peter i. 4,
-tergal glory. — 2 Timothy ii. 10.
L
0
•Old if Thou wilt Thou canst make me clean. — Luke v. 12.
•ook unto Me and be ye saved. — Isaiah xlv. 22.
•ord I believe. — ^John ix. 38.
■ught not Christ to have suffered. — Luke xxiv. 26.
•nee suffered for sins, the just for the unjust. — i Pet. iii. l8.
•fFered Himself without spot to God. — Hebrews ix. 14.
F-uU of grace and truth. — ^John i. 14.
-reely ye have received, freely give. — Matthew x. 8.
-oUow thou Me. — ^John xxi. 22
Y
0
U
R
-ou hath He quickened. — Ephesians ii. I.
our life is hid with Christ in God. — Colossians iii. 3,
-ield yourselves unto God. — Romans vi. 13.
•Id things are passed away. — 2 Corinthians v. 17,
■pen thy mouth wide and I wrill fill it. — Psalm Ixxxi. lO.
■h how great is Thy goodness ! — Psalm xxxi. 19.
■nsearchable riches of Christ. — Ephesians iii. 8.
■nto you therefore which believe He is precious. — i Pet ii. 7,
■nto them that look for Him shall He appear. — Heb ix. 28.
-edeemed with the precious blood of Christ. — i Peter i. 19
-ejoice in the Lord alway. — Philippians iv. 4.
esist the devil and he will flee from you. — James iv. 7,
S
-in shall not have dominion over you. — Romans vi. 14.
-earch the Scriptures. — ^John v. 39.
-ee that ye refuse not Him that speaketh. — Hebrews xii. 25.
A-ccepted in the beloved. — Ephesians i; 6.
-Itogether lovely. — Cant v. 16.
-sk and ye shall receive. — ^John xvi. 24.
T-et your light so shine before men. — Matthew v. l6,
-ooking unto Jesus. — Hebrews xii. 2.
-L_y-et no man beguile you. — Colossians ii. 18,
92 NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
V-ain is the help of man. — Psalm Ix. u.
-ictory through our Lord Jesus Christ. — i Cor xv. 57,
-essels of mercy. — Romans ix. 23.
A-ccording to His mercy He saved us. — Titus, iii, 5,
-braham believed God. — Romans iv. 3.
-ccording to your faith be it unto you. — Matthew ix.
T
I
0
N
•hus saith the Lord. — Exodus iv, 22
•hy sins are forgiven, — Luke vii, 48,
•hy faith hath saved thee, go in peace. — Luke vii. 50.
-f Christ be not raised ye are yet in your sins. — I Cor.
-know that my Redeemer liveth. — ^Job. xix. 25.
-know whom I have believed. — 2 Timothy i. 12.
-taste and see that the Lord is good. — Psalm xxx
-magnify the Lord with me. — Psalm xxxiv. 3.
-ccupy till I come. — Luke xix. 13.
-o weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper. — Is. liv. 17,
-either shall any pluck them out of My hand. — ^John x, 28.
-ow unto Him that is able to keep you from falling and to
present you faultless before the presence of His glory with
exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our Saviour be glory
and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. —
Amen. — Jude 24, 25.
«
DOST THOU BELIEVE ON THE SON OF GOD ? -
FOR
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life. — ^John iii. 36.
He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself. — i John v. 10.
He that believeth on Me shall never thirst. — John vi. 35.
H[e that believeth on Me, believeth not on Me, but on Him that sent Me. — John
w. . 44.
He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. — ^John vi. 47.
ile that believeth on Me. .out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. — John
vii. 38.
He that believeth on Him is not condemned. — ^John iii. 18.-
He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also. — 'John xiv. 12.
He that believeth on Him shall not be confounded, — i Peter ii. 6.
He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. — John xi. 25.
■ Whosoever believeth in Me shall never die. — ^John xi. 26.
Whosoever believeth on Me should not abide in darkness. — ^John xii, 46.
Whosoever believeth in Him .should not perish, but have eternal life. — ^John iii.
Whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins. — Acts x. 43.
Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed. — Rom. ix. 33
Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. — John
iii. 16.
BUT
He that believeth not is condemned already, — John iii. 18.
He that believeth not God hath made Him a liar. — i John v. lOi*
He that believeth not shall be condemned. — Mark xvi. 16.
He that believeth not the Son shall not see life. — ^John iii. 36.
And the Scripture cannot be broken. — ^John x. 35.
Him that cometh to me I will in no M^se cast out. — ^John vi. 37.
How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation ? — Heb. ii. 3.
Luke xxi. 33. Mark ix. 23 ; xvi, 16. John v. 24; vi. 40. Romans i, 16 ; iv
5 ; X. 4, 10, u. I John v. 5.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
9^
STATE BY NATURE.
None righteous. — Rom. iii. 9-23.
Death by sin. — Rom. v. 12.
All under sin. — Gal. iii. 22.
Children of wrath. — Eph. ii. 1-3.
Unclean. — ^Job. xiv. 4.
Unclean. — Isa. Ixiv. 6.
Shapen in iniquity. — Ps. Ii. tj.
Evil continually. — Gen. vi. 5.
Desperately wicked. — Jer. xvii. 9.
CHRIST JESUS, A SAVIOUR.
Shall save his people. — Matt. i. 21.
Justified freely. — Rom. iii. 24-26.
A faithful saying. — i Tim. i. 15.
Redemption through blood. — Eph. 16,7
By his own blood. — Heb; ix. 12, 26-28.
Not imputing trespasses. — 2 Cor, v.
17-21.
Christ died for the ungodly. — Rom. v.
6-1 1.
Precious blood, — i Pet. i. 18, 19.
Raised for justification. — Rom. iv. 25.
CHRIST JESUS, A SAVIOUR TO
THE UTTERMOST.
Supply all your need. — Phil, iv. 19.
Jesus the same forever. — Heb. xiii. 8.
Able to save to the uttermost. — Heb.
vii, 25.
Able to keep. — 2 Tim. i. 12.
Able to do above that we ask. — Eph.
iii. 20.
Able to succour them that are tempted.
Heb. ii. 18. .
Able to build you up. — Acts xx. 32.
Able to make all grace abound. —
2 Cor, ix. 8.
Able to present vou faultless. — ^Jude 24,
25-
CHRIST JESUS. THE SIN- •
BEARER.
Behold the Lamb of God. — ^John i. 29.
By his stripes, healed. — Isa, liii.
Christ hath redeemed. — Gal. iii. 13.
Who bare our sins. — i Pet. ii. 24.
One sacrifice for sins. — Heb. x. 12-14.
Forgiveness of sins. — Acts xiii, 38, 39.
Purged our sins. — Heb. i. 3.
To take away our sins. — i John iii, 5.
It is finished, — ^John xix, 30.
CHRIST JESUS, OUR PEACE.
Peace thro'igh blood of his cross. —Col
i. 12-14, 20.
He is our peace. — Eph. ii. 13, 14.
Peace I leave with you. — ^John xiv, 27-
Peace be unto you. — ^John xx, 19-26.
Peace with God, — Rom. v. i.
Peace of God. — Phil, iv, 6, 7.
Lord of peace. — 2 Thess. iii. i6t
In Me peace. — ^John xvi, 33.
Peace from Him. —Rev. i. 4-d
INVITATIONS.
I stand and knock. — Rev. iii. 20.
I came to call sinners. — Luke v. 32.
Come unto me and rest, — Matt. xi. 28"'
Come unto'me and drink. — ^John vii. 37
Come now, let us reason. — Isa. i. 18.
Come to the waters. — Isa. Iv. i.
Come, all things are ready. — Luke xiv
17.
Nowise cast out. — ^Johnvi. 37, 47.
Come, whosoever will. — Rev. xxii. 17..
GOD THE GIVER,
Gift of God, Eternal Life. — Rom. vl;
23.
This life is in his Son.— i John v, 11-13.
He gave his Son, — i John iii. 14-16.
His unspeakable gift,-! — 2 Cor, ix. 15..
Gave Himself for me. — Gal, ii. 20.
I give eternal life, — ^John x. 27-29.
Rich in mercy. — Eph. ii, 4-10.
Freely give us all things. — Rom. viii^
31-39.
All things yours.T-i Cor, iii. 22, 23
ASSURANCES.
Thou shalt be saved. — Acts xvi, 31.
Hath everlasting life. — ^John v, 24.
The blood cleanseth. — i John i. 7-9.
I have redeemed thee, — Isa. xliii. i, 2.
Beloved, now sons of God. — i John iii,
1,2.
With Him in glory. — Col. iii, 1-4;
No condemnation. — Rom. viii, i.
Full assurance of faith. — Heb. X. 19-23
Where I am, ye may be also — ^John
xiv. 13.
94
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
AGAINST CHRIST.
IN THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST, LUKE.
ICAHlii. II.
"The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and
the prophets thereof divine for money ; yet will they lean upon the Lord, and say,
is not the Lord among us ?"
They in the Synagogue — Pharisees — Doctors of the law — Scribes — Lawvers —
Rulers of Synagogue — The Chief Priests — The chief of the people — The Elders-
Judas Iscariot — Captains — Captains of the Temple — Herod — Men of War — Pilate ,
iv. 28-29 They in the Synagogue were filled with wrath .. Thrust Him out
of the city.. Led him unto the brow of the hill.. That they
might cast Him down.
V, 17 & 21 Pharisees and doctors of the law. .Scribes and Pharisees began to
reason.
Scribes and Pharisees murmured against His disciples.
Pharisees said, why do ye that which is not lawful?
1 1 Scribes and pharisees watched Him . . That they might find an
accusation. .They were filled with madness.
V.
30
y.i.
2
VI.
7 &
vu.
30
Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God,
«. 53-54
xni.
14
XUl.
31
XIV.
I &3
XV.
2
XVI.
14
XVll.
20
xix.
39
xix.
47
^x.
1-2
XX, 19-20
XXll,
2
xxn.
3 to
xxii.
52
xxii.
66
xxiii.
10
xxni.
11
KXUl.
24-25
The Scribes and Pharisees began to urge Him vehemently. .Provoke
him to speak of many things, laying wait. . . Seeking to catch
something out of His mouth, that they might accuse Him.
The ruler of the Synagogue answered with indignation.
There came. .Pharisees saying, .get thee out. . Herod will kill thee.
The lawyers and Pharisees watched Him.
The Pharisees and Scribes murmured.
The Pharisees . . who were covetous . . derided Him.
He was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God
should come.
Some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said.. rebuke
thy disciples.
The chief priests and the scribes sought to destroy Him.
The chief priests and the scribes came upon Hmi, with the elders. .
saying. .By what authority doest thou these things ? or who is he
that gave Thee this authority ?
The chief priests and the scribes, .sought to lay hands on Him.
They watched Him, and sent forth spies . . feign themselves jus
men, that they might take hold of His words.
The chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him.
Judas Iscariot. .communed with the chief priests and captains how
he might betray Him. .they covenanted to give him money.
The chief priests and captains of the Temple and the elders . .wene
come, .as against a thief, with swords and staves.
The elders . . the chief priests and the scribes . . led him into their
council.
The chief priests and scribes .. vehemently accused Him.
Herod with his men of war set Him at nought and mocked Him
Pilate gave sentence . .he delivered Jesus to their will.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
95
FOR CHRIST.
IN THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST. LUKE.
ST. MARK XII. 37.
** The common, people heard Him gladly.
•Great, innumerable multitudes of the people. The publicans — Sinners.
ay. 42 The people sought Him, and came unto Him . . and stayed Him
that He should not depart.
V, 15 Great multitudes came together, to hear . . to be healed.
VI.
vii.
viii.
viii.
ix.
ix.
xi.
xii. I
17 to 19 A great multitude of people, .came to hear, .to be healed, .sought
to touch Him.
29 All the people, .and the publicans, justified God.
4 Much people were gathered together.
40 The people gladly received Him. .they were all waiting for Him.
II The people, .followed Him.
37 Much people met Him.
29 The people were gathered thick together.
xiu. 17
XV. I
xviii. 43
xix. 37
XIX,
48
XX.
19
xxi.
38
XXll,
2
xxii.
6
Gathered together an innumerable multitude oi people.. they
trode one upon another.
All the people rejoiced.
Drew near. . the publicans and sirmers. .to hear.
All the people, .gave praise unto God.
The whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise
God with a loud voice.
All the people were very attentive to hear Him.
And they feared the people.
All the people came early in the morning, .to hear Him
For they feared the people.
Betray Him. .In the absence of the multitude.
xxiii. 37 There followed Him a great company of people which . . bewailed
and lamented,
xxiii. 48 All the people smote their breasts.
96
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
MISERY REQUIRES MERCY.
Jesus Christ wants to make you happy.
—Psalm xxiii.
Jesus Christ wants to give joy. — John
XVi. 22-24.
Jesus Christ wants to give peace. — John
xiv. 27.
Jesus Christ wants to wipe away my
tears.— Isaiah XXV, 8; Rev. vii. 17.
Jesus Christ wants to stop every sigh.
—Isaiah xxv, 10.
Jesus Christ wants to satisfy hunger and
thirst, — John vi, 35 ; Matt. v. 6 j Psalm
cvii. 9.
Jesus Christ wants to give rest to the
wear)'. — Isaiah xxvi. 3.
SEVEN THINGS THE UNSAVED
• HAVE.
No God. Eph. ii. 12.
No Christ. Rom. viii, 9.
No Life. I John v. 12.
No Peace. Rom. iii. 17.
No Hope. Eph, ii. 12.
No Excuse. Rom. i. 20.
No Escape. Heb. ii. 3.
" COMES " OF OUR LORD JESUS
CHRIST.
Come and see. John i. 39,
Come unto Me, Matt. xi. 28.
Come down. Luke xix. 5.
Come. . . .apart and rest. Mark vi. 31.
Come forth. John xi. 43.
Come and dine. John xxi. 12.
Come, ye blessed. Matt. xxv. 34.
I will COME again. John xiv. 3.
SEVEN OTHER " COMES."
Come into the ark. Gen. viii. i.
Come, let us reason together I a i
18.
Come, My people, enter into thy
chambers. Isa. xxvi. 20.
Come ye to the waters. Isa. Iv. i.
Come out and be ye separate. 2 Cor.
vi. 1 7.
Come out of her, My people Rev.
xviii 4
Come up hither. Rev. iv. i .
WHAT SHALL I DO WITH
CHRIST ?
He created me. Col. i. 16.
He upholds me. Heb. i. 3.
He redeemed me'. Isa. xliii. i.
He is my mediator, i Tim. ii. 5.
He is my advocate, i John ii. i.
He is my brother. Mark iii. 35.
He is my Saviour. 2 Peter iii. 18.
For God so loved the world, that He-
gave His only begotten Son, that whoso-
ever believeth in Him shall not perish,
but have everlasting life. John iii. 16.
GOD'S WORDS.
Man lost. Rom. iii. 12 ; iii. 22, 23 ; Ec
vii. 20. Isa. liii. 6.
Redemption provided. Isa. xliii. i ; i
Cor. vi. 20 ; i Peter i. 18, 19 ; Isa. xliv,
22.
Substitute offered, i Peter ii. 24 ; Isa.
1. 8 ; liii. 11 ; Rom. v. i.
Sins forgiven. Eph. iv. 32 ; Matt. vi. 14 ;
Isa. i. 18 ; Isa. xliii. 25
IF
Man accepts His word. 1 John i. 4 ;.
xi. 2.
Man accepts His name. Acts, x 43.
Man receives His gift. John iii. 16 ; i.
12.
Man loves His counsel. Psa. cxix. 97 ;
Isa. Iv, 6.
Man follows His teaching. Psa, cxix. 2 ;
I John v. 13.
JESUS CHRIST,OUR SIN BEARER.
John i. 29 ; Isa. liii ; Rom^ iv. 25 ; 2
Cor. V. 17-21 ; I Peter ii. 25 ; Heb. ix.
26-28 ; Acts xiii. 38-39 ; Heb. i. 3 ; i
John iii. 5 j Heb. x, 12-14,
JESUS CHRIST, OUR SAVIOUR.
Matt. i. 21 ; Luke xix. lo ; I. Tim. i.
15 ; Isa. Ixiii, 2 ; Heb. ix. 12'; Gal. iii.
13 ; I John iv. 14-15 ; iPeter i. 18, 19 ;
Rom. iv. 25 ; Isa. xiv. 21, 22.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
97
HELPS FOR INQUIRERS.
Do you doubt ? read i John v. 13 ; iii.
2, 14, 24.
Have you strayed ? read Jer. ii. 5, 19,
27j 32 ; Jer. iii. 12-14, 22.
Are you good enough ? read Rom. iii.
io,|i2, 23 ; Isa, i. 5, 6 ; i John i. 10.
Too great a sinner ? read Isa. i. 18 ;
liii. 4, 5 ; xliii. 25 ; xliv. 22 ; Rom. v. 6.
Don't know how ? read John i. 12 ; iii.
15, 16, 18, 36 ; vi. 29, 47 ; Isa. xxvi. 3 ;
Psa. xxxiv. 8 ; Rev. xxii. 1 7 ; Rom. vi. 23 ;
Isa. Iv. I.
Do you trust and doubt ? read Rom.
9, 10 ; Matt. X. 32.
Afraid you will fail ? read Isa. xlvi. 10,
J3 ; 2 Tim. i. 12 ; Rom. viii. 38, 39; Col.
m. 3, 4.
Heed the invitations. Read Matt. xi.
28 ; Rev. iii. 20; Rev. xxii. 17.
OUR STATE OF NATURE
Rom. iii. 9-23 ; Rom. v. 12 ; Col. ii. 13 ;
Gal. iii. 22 ; Eph. ii. 1-3 ; Isa. Ixiv. 6 ; Job
xiv. 4 ; Psa. Ii. 5 ; Gen. vi. 5 ; Jer. xvii. 9,
Eph. iv. 18 ; Eph. ii. 12.
JESUS CHRIST, THE SOURCE OF
PEACE.
Col. i. 2J ; Eph. ii, 14, 17^ John xiv.
27 ; Rom. V. i ; Phil. iv. 7 ; 2. Thess.
iii. 16 ; John xvi. 33 ; Zech. ix. 10 ; Isa.
ix. 6, 7 ; Isa. xxvi. 3.
FORGIVENESS.
Isa. i. 18 ; Eph. i. 7 ; Col. i. 14 ;
Rom. iii. 25 ; Acts v. 31 ; xiii. 38, 39 ;
Isa. xliii. 25 ; xliv. 22 ; Psa. Ixxxvi. 5 ;
Isa. Iv. 7 ; Luke vii. 36-50 ; Micah vii.
18 ; Ex. xxxiv. 6, 7 ; i John i. 9 ; Mark
ii. 5 ; Psa. xxxii. i, 2 ; Psa. ciii. 3, 12.
JESUS CHRIST, A LIVING
SAVIOUR.
Rom. viii. 34 ; Rom. vi. 8, c, ; Heb. ix.
24 ; Heb. vii. 25, 26 ; Heb. x. 12, 13 >
Acts ii. 22-36 ; Acts v. 30, 31 ; Rev. i. 17
18 ; John xiv. 19 ; Matt, xxviii. 18, 20
Col. iii. 1-4
YOU MAY KNOW THAT YOU ARE
SAFE.
1 John V. 13 ; 2 Timothy i. 12 ; Colos-
sians i. 14 ; John v. 24 ; John iii. 36.
7
COME.
Come and see. John i. 39.
Come and rest. Matt. xi. 28-30.
Come and dine. John xxi. 12.
Come and drink. John vii. 37.
Come and buy. Isa. Iv. i.
CHRIST SAYS
Come unto Me — for rest of soul. Matt.
xi. 28.
Follow Me~for growth in grace. John
xxi. 19.
Abidf in Me — for power to serve.
John XV. 4.
FOR WHOM DID JESUS DIE ?
Galatians ii. 20 ; Romans v. 6 ; Rom.
V. 8 ; Romans v. 10 ; i Peter iii. 18 ; i
Timothy i. 15 ; 2 Corinthians ii. 10.
CHRIST JESUS. OUR SAVIOUR.
" Shall save His people." Matt. i. 21 ;
Jer. xxiii. 6.
" Seek and save." Luke xix. 10.
" Came to save sinners." i Tim.i. 15.
"Beside me no Saviour." Isaiah
xliii. II.
"By His own blood." Heb. ix. 12.
"Christ hath redeemed." Gal. iii. 13.
"Father sent." i John iv. 14, 15.
"Precious blood." i Peter i. 18, 19.
" Raised for justification." Rom. iv.25.
" Look unto me and be saved." Isaiah
xiv. 21, 22.
" Exalted to be a Saviour." Acts v. 31.
"Captain of salvation." Heb. ii. 10.
"Author of salvation." Heb. v. 9.
CHRIST JESUS, THE SOURCE
OF PEACE.
"Peace through blood of His cross."
Col. i. 20.
"He is our peace." Eph. ii. 14, 17.
" Peace I leave with you." John xiv.27.
"Peace with God." Rom. v. i. ^
Peace of God." Phil. iv. 7.
"Lord of peace." 2 Thess. iii. 16.
" In Me ye have peace." John xvi. 33
"Prince of peace." Isaiah ix. 6, 7.
"Perfect peace." Isaiah xxvi. 3.
98
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
ADOPTION.
What we are by nature. Eph. ii.
I. 3-12.
Cast out polluted. Ezek. xvi. 5, 6.
God gives life and washes. Ezek.
xvi. 6, 9.
God's question and answer. Jer.
iii. 19.
"Now sons of God." i John iii. 2.
"Power to become sons of God."
John i. 12.
"Restores likeness lost in Adam."
Eph, iv. 23, 24.
" Spirit of adoption." Rom. viii. 15.
"Makes members of Christ's body."
Eph, v. 29, 30.
" Children — then heirs." Rom. viii. 17,
"Partakers of Divine Nature." 2
Peter 1-4.
"Led by the Spirit."Rom. viii. 14,
GvJD'S DESCRIPTION OF YOU
AAHO ARE UNCONVERTED.
Dectd in trespass and sins. Eph.
ii. I.
Abominable. Job xv. 16.
Corrupt. Psalms liii. i.
Filthy. Psalms xiv. 3.
Lost. Luke xix. 10.
Miserable. Rev. iii. 17.
Blind. 2 Cor. 4; Isaiah liii. 2.
Naked. Rev. iii. 17.
Ungodly. Rom. v. 6.
Full of evil. Eccl. ix. 3.
Mad. Eccl. ix. 3.
Deceitful and desperately wicked.
Jer. xvii. 9.
Enemies. Rom. v. 10.
Hopeless. Eph, ii. i?.
Children of disobedience. Eph. ii. 2.
Far off, aliens. Eph. ii. 12, 13.
Deaf. Psalms Iviii. 4, 5.
Without excuse. Rom. i. 20.
Laden with iniquity. Isaiah i. 4 — D.
Every imagination of the thoughts of
his heart only evil continually. Gen.
vi. 5-
All guilty before God. Rom. iii. 19.
There is no difference. All have
s'inned and come short of the glory of
Ciod Rom. iii. 22, 23
FOURTEEN CRIES WITH WHICH
JESUS WAS MET.
The cry of defiance. Matt. viii. 29.
The cry of faith. Matt, ix, 27.
The cry of terror. Matt. xiv. 26.
The cry of danger. Matt. xiv. 30.
The cry of intercession. Matt. xv. 23.
The cry of importunity. Matt, xx.31.
The cry of homage. Matt. xx. 9.
The cry of the children. Matt.xxi. 15.
The cry of hatred. Matt, xxvii. 23.
The cry of involuntary subjection.
Mark iii. 11.
The cry of weak faith. Mark ix. 24.
The cry of baffled rage. Mark ix. 26.
The cry of testimony. John i. 15.
The cry of rejection. John xix. 15,
Reader, which will you take up ?
W.H.S.
GODS WAY OF RECONCILIA-
TION.
"Without shedding of blood is no
remission." Heb. ix. ii..
"It is the blood that maketh an
atonement for the soul." Lev. xvii. 11.
"When I see the blood I will pass
over you." Exodus xii. 13.
"God commendeth His love toward
us, in that, while we were yet sinners,
Christ died for us." Rom. v. 8.
"In whom we have redemption through
His blood, the forgiveness of sins."
Eph. i. 7.
"Who His own self bare our sins in
His own body on the tree, that we being
dead to sins, should live unto righteous-
ness; by whose stripes ye were healed."
1 Peter ii. 24.
"And all things are of God who hath
reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ
and hath given to us the ministry of
reconciliation," 2 Cor. v. 18.
"To wit, that God was in Christ recon-
ciling the world unto Himself, not
imputing their trespasses unto them ;
and hath committed unto us the word of
reconciliation." 2 Cor. v. 19.
" Now then we are ambassadors for
Christ, as though God did beseech you
by us, we pray you in Christ's stead be
ye reconciled to God," 2 Cor. v. 20.
"For He hath made Him to be sin for
us who knew no sin, that we might be
made the righteousness of God in Him."
2 Cor v. 21
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
99
GODS INVITATIONS TO COME.
" Come now and let us reason together,
saith the Lord ; though your sins be as
scarlet they shall be white as snow,
though they be red like crimson they
shall be as wool." Isaiah i. i8.
" Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye
to the waters, and he that hath no money ;
come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy
wine and milk without money and
without price." Isaiah Iv. i.
" Come, for all things are now ready."
Luke xiv. 17.
"Come unto Me, all ye that labour
and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest." Matt. xi. 28.
"Jesus stood and cried, saying. If any
man thirst, let him come unto Me and
drink." John vii. 37.
"And let him that is athirst, come;
and whosoever will, let him take the
water of life freely." Rev. xxii. 17.
"He that cometh to Me, I will in no
wise cast out." John vi. 37.
THE RESULT OF BELIEVING.
" God so loved the world that he gave
His only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in Him should not perish, but
have everlasting life." John iii. i5.
" He that believeth on the Son hath
everlasting life." John iii. 36.
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, he
that heareth My word and believeth on
Him that sent Me hath everlasting life-
and shall not come into condemnation,
but is ^ -^^sed from death unto life."
John V. .
"These are written that ye might
believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son
of God, and that believing ye might
have life through His name." John xx: 31.
" Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and
thou shalt be saved." Acts xvi. 31.
" If thou shalt confess with thy mouth
the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine
heart that God hath raised Him from
the dead, thou shalt be saved." Rom. x. 9.
" To Him give all the prophets witness,
that through His name whosoever
believeth on Him shall receive remission
of sins." Acts x. a^
CONSEQUENCES OF UNBELIEF.
"If ye believe not that I am He, ye
shall die in your sins." John viii. 24.
" He that believeth not God hath made
Him a liar." i John v. 10.
" He that believeth not is condemned
already, because he hath not believed in
the name of the only begotten Son oi
God." John iii. 18.
"He that believeth not the Son shall
not see life; but the wrath of God
abideth on him." John iii. 36.
" How shall we escape if we neglect so
great salvation?" Heb. ii. 3.
"To-day, if ye will hear His voice,
harden not your hearts." Heb. iv. 7.
THE UNIVERSAL TIMETABLE.
THE sinner's — NOW !
Thus saith the Lord, now once in
the end of the world hath He appeared
to put away sin by the sacrifice of Him-
self.— Hebrews ix. 26.
Now is Christ risen from the dead. —
I Cor. XV. 20.
Come now, and let us reason to-
gether, saith the Lord, though your
sins be as scarlet they shall be as white
as snow, though they be red like
crimson they shall be as wpol. — Isaiah
i. 18.
Now is the accepted time. Now is
the day of salvation. — 2 Cor. vi. 2.
Come, for all things are now ready.
— Luke xiv. 17. >
THE believer's — NOW !
Thus saith the Lord, There is there
fore now no condemnation to them
which are in Christ Jesus. — Romans
viii. I.
Now in Christ Jesus ye who some-
times were afar off are made nigh by
the blood of Christ. — Eph. ii. 13.
Beloved, now are we the sons of God;
and it doth not yet appear what we
shall be ; but we know that, when He
shall appear, we shall be like Him ; for
we shall see Him as He is. And every
one that hath this hope in him purifieth
himself, even as He is pure. — i John
iii. 2, 3.
lOO
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
FALSE PEACE.
Deuteronomy xxix. 19, 20; Jeremiah
vi. 14; Jeremiah xxxiii. 16, 17; Isaiah
xxviii. 15, 17; I Thessalonians v. 3;
James i. 22.
ETERNAL LIFE IS THE GIFT
OF GOD.
I John V. 11; John x. 28; John iii.
16, 17; Ephesians ii. 8, 9; Romans vi.
2, 3; John i. 12.
WHAT GOD SAYS OF MY SINS
WHEN I TRUST IN JESUS.
Blotted out. Isa. xHii. 25 ; xliv. 22;
Acts iii. 19.
Borne by another, i Peter ii. 24.
Cast behind God's back. Isa. xxxviii.
17-
Covered. Rom. iv. 7.
Cast into the depths of the sea.
Mic. vii. ig.
Finished. Dan. ix. 24.
Forgiven. Col. ii. 13.
Not beheld. Num. xxiii. 21.
Not imputed. Rom. iv. 8. •
Not remembered. Heb. viii. 12.
Pardoned. Micah vii. 18.
Passed away. Zach. iii. 4.
Purged. Heb. i. 3.
Put away. Heb. ix. 26.
Remitted. Acts x. 43.
Removed. Psalms ciii. 12.
Subdued. Micah vii. 19.
Sought for and not found. Jer. 1. 20.
Washed away with blood, i John i. 7.
Taken away. Isa. vi. 7.
THE SINNER AND THE SAVIOUR
The Sinner.
The wages of sin is death. Rom. vi.
23-
God be merciful to me a sinner. Luke
xviii. 13..
What must I do to be saved ? Acts
xvi. 30.
The Saviour.
The gift of God is eternal hie. Rom. 1
vi. 23. I
For God so loved the world, that He 1
gave His only begotten Son, that whoso- ''
ever believeth in Him should not perish, 1
but have everlasting life John iii. 16.
The Sinner
I abhor myself, and repent in dust
and ashes. Job xlii. 6.
Hide Thy face from my sins, and
blot out all mine iniquities. Psalm Ii. 9.
The Saviour.
I have blotted out, as a thick cl^^^ '.
thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, Xay
sins : return unto Me ; for I have re-
deemed thee. Isaiah xliv. 22.
The Sinner.
Cast me not away from Thy presence ;
and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.
Psalm Ii. II.
The Saviour.
Him that cometh to Me I will in no
wise cast out. John vi. 37.
The Sinner.
All we like sheep have gone astray.
Isaiah liii. 6.
The Saviour.
What man of you, having an hundred
sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not
leave the ninety and nine in the wilder-
ness, and go after that which is lost
until he find it ? And when he hath
found it, he layeth it on his shoulders,
rejoicing. Luke xv. 4, 5.
For the Son of man is come to seek
and to save that which was lost. Luke
xix. 10.
The Sinner.
Shew me Thy ways, O Lord ; teach
me Thy paths. Psalm xxv. 4.
The Saviour.
Search the Scriptures. John v. 39.
All Scripture is given by inspiration
of God, and is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction
in righteousness. 2 Tim. iii. 16.
The Sinner.
Open Thou mine eyes, that I may be-
hold wondrous things out of Thy law.
Psalm cxix. 18.
Leave me not, neither forsake me, O
God of my salvation. Psalm xxvii. g.
The Saviour.
1 will never leave thee nor forsake
thee. Heb. xiii. 5.
Yea, I have loved thee with an ever-
iy sting love . therefore v/ith loving-kind-
ness have 1 drawn tlu^c Jer. xxxi. 3.
Lovest thou Me ? IdIhi xx) 17
;OTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
lOI
The Sinner,
Lord, Thou knowest all things ; Thou
knowest that I love Thee. John xxi. 17.
The Saviour.
If ye love Me, keep My command-
ments. John xiv. 15.
A new commandment I give unto you,
That ye love one another ; as I have
ioved you, that ye also love one another.
John xiii. 34.
The Sinner.
To will is present with me ; but how
to perform that which is good I find
not. For the good that I wouid I do
not ; but the evil which I would not,
that I do. Rom. vii, 18, 19.
The Saviour.
My grace is sufficient for thee ; for
My strength is made perfect in weakness.
2 Cor. xii. 9.
The Sinner,
Lord, increase our faith. Luke xvii. 5.
The Saviour.
Ask, and it shall be given you. Luke
xi. 9.
If a son shall ask bread of any of you
that is a father, will he give him a stone ?
Luke xi, II,
If ye then, being evil, know how to
give good gifts unto your children, how
much more shall your Heavenly Father
give the Holy Spirit to them that ask
Him ? Luke xi. 13.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,
peace, long-suffering, gentleness, good-
ness, faith, meekness, temperance. Gal.
V. 22, 23.
The Sinner.
O Lord my God, in Thee do I put
my trust ; sav3 me from all them that
persecute me, and deliver me. Psalm
vii. I.
The Saviour.
All that will live godly in Christ Jesus
shall suffer persecution. 2 Tim. iii. 12.
Blessed are the'y which are persecuted
for righteousness sake ; for theirs is the
kingdom of heaven. Matt. v. 10..
Whosoever shall confess Me before
men, him shall the Son of man also con-
fess before the angels of God. Luke xii. 8.
' The Sinner.
Hold Thou me up, and I shall be
safe. Psalm cxix. 117,
The Saviour.
Fear thou not ; for I am with thee :
be not dismayed ; for I am thy God : I
will strengthen thee ; yea, I will help
thee ; yea, I will uphold thee with the
right hand of My righteousness. Isaiah
xii, 10,
The Sinner.
The Lord is my light and my salva-
tion ; whom shall I fear ? The Lord is
my strength of my life ; of whom shall
I be afraid ? Psalm xxvii. i.
Yea, though I walk through the valley'
of the shadow of death, I will fear no
evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod
and Thy staff they comfort me. Psalm
xxiii. 4.
The Saviour.
1 am the resurrection, and the hfe;
he that believeth in Me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live : and whosoever
liveth and believeth in Me shall never
die. John xi. 25, 26,
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that
heareth My word, and believeth on Him
that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and
shall not come into condemnation ; but
is passed from death unto life. John v, 24,
The Sinner.
O death, where is thy sting ? O grave
where is thy victory ? Thanks be to God.
which giveth us the victory through our
Lord Jesus Christ, i Cor. xv. 55. 57.
The Saviour.
Be thou faithful unto death, and I
will give thee a crown of life. Rev. ii. 10.
Surely I come quickly. Rev. xxii, 20,
The Sinner,
Amen, Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Rev. xxii. 20.
I02
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE GREAT PHYSICIAN.
Words of Comfort for the Sick.
1. Himself took our infirmities, and
bare our sicknesses. Matt. viii. 17.
2. Jesus went about healing all
manner of sickness and all manner of
disease among the people. Matt. iv. 23.
3. They that are whole need not a
physician ; but they that are sipk.
Luke V. 31.
4. Say in a word, and my servant
shall be healed And they that
were sent, returning to the house, found
the servant whole that had been sick.
Luke vii. 7-10.
5. Lord, he whom Thou lovestis sick.
When Jesus heard that, He said, This
sickness is not unto death but for the
glory of God, that the Son of God
might be glorified thereby. John xi. 3, 4.
6. The Lord will strengthen him upon
the bed of languishing : Thou wilt make
all his bed in his sickness. Psilm xli. 3.
7. The inhabitants shall not say, I am
sick. Isaiah xxxiii. 24.
HELPFUL PASSAGES ¥0'^ DIF-
FERENT CLASSES OF
SEEKERS.
For Backsliders. — Jer. ii. 19 ; iii. 13,
14 ; Hosea xiv. 4.
For the Slightly Convicted. — Rom,
iii. 10, 23 ; vii. 24; i John i. 10; Eccl.
vii. 20 ; Isa. liii. 6 ; Psa. cxliii, 2 ; Acts
xiii. 39 ; Gal. ii. 16 ; Eph. ii. 8, 9.
For those who are too Great Sinners.
— Isa. i. 18 ; xliii. 25 ; xliv. 22 ; Rom. v,
6 ; I Peter ii. 24 ; Rev. xxii. 17.
For those who are afraid they will not
Hold Out. — I Peter iv. 19 ; Psa. cxxi. i ;
Isa. xliii. 2 ; i Cor. x. 13 ; 2 Cor. xii. 9 ;
Rom. viii. 38, 39.
For those who Stumble at the Incon-
sistencies of Christians. — Rom. xiv. 12 ;
Jno. xxi. 21, 22 ; Matt. vii. 1,3; Rom.
ii. I ; xiv. 3, 4.
For those who have Tried to Become
Christians Without Success. — Jer. xxix.
13 ; Deut. iv. 29 ; Rom. iv. 5
For those who Wait a f'^/^xe Conveni-
ent Season. — Prov. xxvii. i ; James iv,
13, 17 ; 2 Cor. vi. 2 ; Heb. iii. 13.
For those who have too many things
to Give Up. — Mark viii. 35, 37 ; Phil. iii.
7.8.
For those who want to Know How to
Believe. — Jno. v. 24. It is to receive,
Jno. i. II, 12. It is to trust. Isa. xxvi. 3,
4. It is to take. Rev. xxii. 17. Results
of believing : Joy. — Jno. xv. 11 ; Rest—
xi. 28. Peace — xiv. 27.
Inquirers who have believed some-
times are in darkness, because they have
not confessed. Rom. x. 10.
Contrast instances of Conversion,
Paul. Acts ix. Cornelius, Acts x.
For skeptical Inquirers. — Jno. vi. 40 ;
Psa. XXV. 14 ; Jno. vii. 17.
IN OUR NATURAL STATE. WE
ARE—
Born in sin : Psa. Ii. 5. Under the
curse : Gal. iii. 10 ; Eph. ii. 3. As
prisoners before the bar of God, con-
demned already: John iii. 18; Rom. iii.
19-23-
JUSTIFICATION—
Frees the sinner (who by nature stands
guilty before God) from condemnation.
Isa. liii. 6; liv. 17; Rom. viii. 1-33. It
is the act of God. Isa. 1. 8, 9. Not oi
works. Gal. iii. 11. But freely by His
grace. Rom. iii. 24 ; Ps. ciii. 2, 3 ; Eph.
i. 6. Through Christ alone. Acts iv.
12; Rom. V. 18, 19. And secured by
God's faithfulness and justice, i John
i. 9. It is NOT by righteousness impart-
I ED to us, or inherent in us ; but through
Christ's perfect righteousness imputed
to us. 2 Cor. V. 21. Not only are we
thereby freed from condemnation, but
we are accounted righteous. Isa. Ixi.
10; Rom. V. 18. We are called by the
very same name as Christ. Jer. xxiii. 6 ;
xxxiii. 16. Have a good title to eternal
life. Titus iii. 7. And our glorification
is ensured. Rom. viii. 30. We work
not for justification, but fioDi, after, or
because of justification. Gal. ii. 16-21 ;
Rom. viii. 1-4.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
^3
OUR SALVATION IS—
Not of works. Eph. ii. g. It is by
grace through faith. Eph. ii. 8. And
flows to us through ordinances appointed
by Christ himself. Rom.i. i6 ; Mark xvi.
16. I Cor. xi. 23-26; Psa. cxlv. 18, 19.
GOOD WORKS—
Are the evidence and fruits of faith.
James ii. 17-20. They do not precede
justification. Rom. iv. 3-8. They are
not " the meritorious or procuring cause"
of justification. Rom. iii. 20; Acts xiii.
39. But they follow justification. Rom,
vi. 18-22.
regeneration-
Is the new birth — the second birth.
It imparts a new nature. Without it
none can see the kingdom of God. John
iii. 3-5. It is the work of the Holy
Spirit. John i. 13 ; iii. 5-6. By means
of the Word of God. James i. 18; i
Pet. i. 23. It changes the will, the affec-
tions, and the conduct : causes us to
hate sin, and produces likeness to God.
Eph, iv. 20-24, The evidences of the
new birth are — A belief that Jesus is the
Christ. I John v. i-io. And living only
for God's glory. 2 Cor. v. 14, 15.
adoption-
Is God's receiving us into his family.
I John iii. i ; Rom. viii. 15, 16. Making
us His. John i. 12 ; 2 Cor. vi. 17, 18.
Making us co-heirs with Christ. Rom.
viii. 17. It produces in us — Filial love.
I John iv. 19, Filial obedience, i John
V. 1-3.
SANCTIFICATION—
Follows justification. It is not, like
it, perfect, i.e., at once complete and
equal in degree in all believers — ^but it is
a progressive work, i Thess. iv. 1-3.
Justification is attained through a right-
eousness eternal to us, viz., the perfect
righteousness of Christ imputed to us.
I Cor. i. 30. Sanctification is a work
within lis — a righteousness imparted to
and wrought in us by the Spirit of God.
I Cor. vi. II. Justification gives us our
title to heaven ; Sanctification makes us
meet for heaven. Eph. v. 25-27; i
Thess. V. 23.
THE BLESSEDNESS OF BELIEV-
ERS IS BEGUN ON EARTH,
AND THEIR GLORIFICATION
PERFECTED IN HEAVEN.
In this Life— They are blessed with
all spiritual blessings. Eph. i. 3. They
experience God's presence, favour, and
love. John xiv. 23 ; Rom. v. 5. They
are already fellow-citizens with the saints
Eph. ii. 19. Their joy is full of glory.
1 Pet. I, 8. Angels minister unto them.
Heb. i, 14. They are sealed unto the
day of redemption. Eph. iv. 30. And are
changed from glory to glory. 2 Cor. iii.
18; Prov. iv. 18. At Death — They
feel secure. Ps. xxiii. 4 ; i Cor. xv. 55-
57. They are more than conquerors.
Rom. viii. 37-39; 2 Pet. i. 11. They
die in the Lord, and are blessed. Rev.
xiv. 13, They go to be with Christ which
is far better. Philip, i. 23. The soul
becomes perfect in holiness. Heb. xii.
23. And enters into glory. 2 Cor. v. 6-
8. The body (united to Christ) rests in the
grave. Isa. Ivii. i, 2; i Thess. iv. 14.
Awaiting its redemption. Rom. viii. 23.
In the Resurrection. — The body sown
in dishonour shall be raised in glory,
Philip, iii. 21 ; i Cor. xv. 43. The soul
and body shall be re-united, i Thess.
iv, 15-17; I Cor. XV. 51-53. The dead
in Christ rise first, i Thess. iv, 16, The
redeemed shall appear with him in glory.
Col. iii. 4, They shall be like Him. i
John iii, z', Ps. xvii. 15. They shall be
glorified vwth Him. Rom. viii, 16-18 ;
2 Tim. ii. 11, I2. They shall see Him
face to face, i Cor, xiii, 12. Experience
fulness of joy, Ps, xvi, 11, Serve Him
day and night. Rev. vii. 15. And shall
be for ever with the Lord, i Thess. iv.
17.
I04
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE SONG OF THE REDEEMED.
Salvation to our God, which sitteth
upon the throne, and unto the Lamb,
Rev.vii. lo. Unto him that loved us,
and washed us from our sins in his own
blood, and hath made us kings and
priests unto God and his Father : to him
be glory and dominion for ever and ever.
Amen. Rev. i. 5, 6. J. B. A.
THINGS WORTH KNOWING.
Our State by Nature. — For I know
that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth
no good thing : for to will is present with
me ; but how to perform that which is
good I find not. Rom. vii. 18.
The Purpose for which Ch^'ist was
manifested. — And ye know that he was
manifested to take away our sins ; and in
him is no sin. i John iii. 5.
Christ Himself — And we believe and
are sure [know] that thou art that
Christ, the Son of the living God. John
vi. 69. I am the good shepherd, and
know my sheep, and am known of mine,
John X. 14. For the which cause I also
suffer these things : nevertheless I am
not ashamed : for I know whom I have
believed, and am persuaded that he is
able to keep that which I have committed
imto him against that day. 2 Tim. i. 12.
The Holy Spirit. — Even the Spirit of
truth ; .whom the world can not receive,
because it seeth him not, neither knoweth
him : but ye know him ; for he dwelleth
■with you, and shall be in you. John
xiv. 17.
God the Father. — And this is life
eternal, that they might know thee the
only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom
thou hast sent, John xvii. 3. I write
unto you, fathers, because ye have known
him that is from the beginning. I write
unto you, young men, because ye have
overcome the wicked one. I write unto
you, little children, because ye have
known the Father, i John ii. 13.
The Grace of Christ. — For ye know
the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that
though He was rich, yet for your sakes
He became poor, that ye through His
poverty might be rich. 2 Cor. viii. 9.
The Love of Christ. — And to know the
love of Christ, which passe th knowledge
that ye might be filled with all the
fulness of God. Eph. iii. 19.
Christ Risen. — ^Jesus saith unto them,
come and dine. And none of the
disciples durst ask Him, who art thou ?
knowing that it was the Lord, John xxi.
12. Knowing that Christ being raised
from the dead dieth no more ; death hath
no more dominion over Him, Rom. vi.9.
Knowing that He which raised up the
Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by
Jesus, and shall present us with you. 2
Cor. iv. 14.
The Way of Justification. — Knowing
that a man is not justified by the works
of the law, but by the faith of Jesus
Christ, even we have believed in Jesus
Christ, that we might be justified by the
faith of Christ and not by the works of
the law : for by the works of the law
shall no flesh be justified. Gal, ii. 16.
That we have Passed from Death unto
Life. — We know that we have passed
from death unto life, because we love
the brethren. He that loveth not his
brother abideth in death, i John iii. 14.
Our Election of God. Knowing,
brethren beloved, your election of God,
I. Thess. i. 4. According as He hath
chosen us in Him before the foundation
of the world, that we should be holy
and without blame before Him in love.
Eph. i. 4.
That we have Eternal Life. — These
things have I written unto you that
believe on the name of the Son of God :
that ye may know tha4: ye have eternal
life, and that ye may believe on the name
of the Son of God. i John v. 13.
That all Things work Together for
our Good. — And we know that all things
work together for good to them that love
God, to them who are the called accor-
ding to his purpose. Rom. viii. 28.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Ikai our Old Man was Crucified 'with
Christ. — Knowing this that our old man
is crucified with him, that the body of
sin might be destroyed, that henceforth
■we should not serve sin. For he that is
dead is freed from sin. Now if we be
dead with Christ, we believe that we
-shall also live with Him. Rom. vi. 6,7, 8
That Tribulation leads to Patience and
Experience and Hope. — And not only so,
but we glory in tribulations also ; knowdng
that tribulation worketh patience; and
patience, experience; and experience,
hope: and hope maketh not ashamed ;
because the love of God is shed abroad
in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which
is given unto us. Rom. v. 3, 4, 5.
That Resurrection Awaits Us. — Martha
saith unto Him, I know that he shall rise
again in the resurrection at the last day.
Jesus saith unto her, I am the resurrec-
tion, and the life: he that believeth in
Me, though he were dead, yet shall he
live. And whosoever believeth in Me
shall never die. Believest thou this?
John xi. 24-26.
That in the last days Perilous Times
shall Come. — This know also, that in the
last days perilous times shall come.
For men shall be lovers of their own
selves, covetous, boasters, proud,
blasphemers, disobedient to parents,
unthankful, unholy, without natural
affection, trucebreakers, false accusers,
incontinent, fierce, despisers of those
that are good, traitors, heady, high-
minded, lovers of pleasures more than
lovers of God ; having a form of godliness,
but denying the power thereof: from
>3uch turn away. 2 Tim. iii. 1-5.
That if Death comes we have a House
in Heaven.^-Fov we know that if our
■earthly house of this tabernacle were
•dissolved, we have a building of God, an
house not made with hands, eternal in
the heavens. For in this we groan,
earnestly desiring to be clothed upon
with our house which is from Heaven :
if so be that being clothed we shall not
be found naked. For we that are in this
tabernacle do groan, beiHg burdened
not for that we would be unclothed, but
clothed upon, that mortality might be
swallowed up of life. Now he that
hath wrought us for the self same thing
is God, who also hath given unto us the
earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are
always confident, knowing that, whilst we
are at home in the body, we are absent
from the Lord : (for we walk by faith
not by sight). 2 Cor. v. 1-7.
That the day of the Lord cometh as a
Thief in the Night. — For yourselves
know perfectly that the day of the Lord
so cometh as a thief in the night. For
when they shall say, peace and safety ;
then sudden destruction cometh upon
them, as travail upon a woman with
child ; and they shall not escape, i Thess.
V. 2, 3.
That Christ our Life shall Appear. —
Beloved now are we the sons of God and
it doth not yet appear what we shall be.*
but we know that when He shall appear,
we shall be like Him, for we shaU see
Him as He is. i John iii. 2.
That in Heaven we have a better
Substance than on Earth. — For ye had
compassion of me in my bonds, and took
joyfully the spoiling of your goods
knowing in yourselves that ye have in
Heaven a better and an enduring sub.
stance. Cast not away therefore your
confidence, which hath great recompense
of reward. Heb. x. 3^1, 35.
• THINGS WORTH HAVING.
Faith in God. — And Jesus answering
saith unto them, have faith in God.
Mark xi. 22.
Everlasting Life. — He that believeth
on the Son hath everlasting life : and he
that believeth not the Son shall not see
life ; but the wrath of God abideth on
him. John iii. 36.
The Joy of Jesus. — And now come I
to thee ; and these things I speak in the
world, that they might have My joy
fulfilled in themselves. John xvii. 13.
io6
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
The Light of Life. — Then spake Jesus
again unto them, saying, I am the light
of the world : he that followeth Me shall
not walk in darkness, but shall have the
light of life. John viii. 12.
The Commandments of Jesus. — He that
hath my commandments, and keepeth
them, he it is that loveth Me: and he
that loveth Me shall be loved of my
Father, and I will love him, and will
manifest Myself to him. John xiv. 21.
Hope toward God. — And have hope
toward God, which they themselves also
allow, that there shall be a resurrection
of the dead, both the just and the un-
just. Acts xxiv. 15.
A Conscience Void of Offence. — And
herein do I exercise myself, to have
always a conscience void of offence
toward God, and toward men. Acts
xxiv. 16.
Peace with God through ouf Lord
jfesus Christ. — Therefore being justified
by faith, we have peace with God through
our Lord Jesus Christ, Rom. v. i.
Access by Faith, into this Grace wherein
we Stand. — By whom also we have access
by faith into this grace wherein we stand,
and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Rom. V. 2,
Fruit unto Holiness. — But now being
made free from sin, and become servants
to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness,
and the end everlasting life. Rom. vi.22.
The First Fruits of the Spirit. — And
not only they, but ourselves also, which
have .the first fruits of the Spirit, even
we ourselves groan within ourselves,
waiting for the adoption, to-wit, the
redemption of our body. Rom. viii. 23.
The Holy Ghost which is in us. —
What ! know ye not that your body is
the temple of the Holy Ghost which is
in you, which ye have of God, and ye
are not your own ? i Cor. vi. 19.
A Building of God. — For we know
that if our earthly house of this taber-
nacle were dissolved, we have a building
'of God. an house not made with hands
eternal m the heavens. 2 Cor. v. i.
All Sufficiency. — And God is able to
make all gi-ace abound toward you ; that
ye, always having all sufficiency in all
things, may abound to every good work,
2 Cor. ix. 8.
God's Promises. — Having therefore-
these promises, dearly beloved, let us.
cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of
the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness
in the fear of God. 2 Cor, vii. i.
Redemption through the Blood 0/ Christ.—
In whom we have redemption through.-
His blood, the forgiveness of sins, ac-
cording to the riches of His grace
Eph. i. 7.
Access by one Spirit unto the Father. —
For through Him we both have access,
by one Spirit unto the Father. Eph.ii.i8.
A desire to Depart and to be with
Christ. — For I am in a strait betwixt
two, having a desire to depart, and to be-
with Christ; which is far better. Phil,
i. 23.
The same Love. — Fulfil ye my joy, that
ye be like-minded, having the same love
being ol one accord, of one mind-
Phil, ii. 2.
Promise of the Life that now is, and of
that which is to come, — For bodily exercise-
profiteth little : but godliness is profitable
unto all things, having promise of the
life that now is, and of that which is-
to come. I Tim. iv. 8.
A Great High Priest. — Seeing then>
that we have a great high priest, that is.
passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son
of God, let us hold fast our profession.
Heb. iv. 14.
i • ^
Hope as an Anchor of the Soul. — Whicb
hope we have as an anchor of the soul,
both sure and steadfast, and which
entereth into that within the veil. Heb..
vi. 19.
A Strong Consolation. — That by twa
immutable things, in which it was-
mpossible for God to lie, we might have-
a strong consolation, who have fled for
refuge to lay hold upon the hope set
before us. Heb. vi. 18.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
107
Boldness to Enter into the Holiest. —
Having therefore, brethi'en, boldness to
enter into the holiest by the blood of
Jesus. Heb. x. 19.
Fellowship with Him. — If we say that
we have fellowship with Him, and walk
in dai'lcness, we lie, and do not the truth.
I John i. 6.
Fellowship one with Another. — But if
we walk in the light, as He is in the
light, we have fellowship one with
another, and the blood of Jesus Christ
His Son cleanseth us from all sin. i
John i. 7.
An Advocate with the Father. — My
little children, these things write I unto
you, that ye sin not. And if any man
sin, we have an advocate with the
Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. i
John ii. I.
Boldness in the day of yudgment. —
Herein is our love made perfect, that we
may have boldness in the day of judg-
ment : because as He is, so are we in this
world. I John iv. 17.
' The Petitions that we desire of God. —
And if we know that he hears us, what-
soever we ask, we know that we have
the petitions that we desired of Him.
I John V. 15.
FOR ANXIOUS SOULS.
The scape goat. Leviticus xvi. 21, 22.
Behold the Lamb, &c. John i. 29.
All we like sheep, &c. Isaiah liii. 6.
As far as the East is from, &c. Psalms
ciii. 12.
I have blotted out, &c. Isaiah xliv.
22.
I even I am He, &c. Isaiah xliii. 25.
Having made peace, &c. Colossians
i. 20.
God is reconciled. 2 Cor. v. 14-21.
His own self bare our sins, &c. i Pet.
ii. 24.
His blood cleanseth from all sin. i
John i. 7.
God hath given to us eternal life, i
John V. II.
Whosoever shall call on the Lord, &c.
John iii. 15-18.
ASSURANCE OF SALVATION.
I Cor. i. 18; Heb. x. 39; 2 Tim. i. 9;
Titus iii. 5 ; Gal. iii. 13 ; i John v. 11.
13 ; John iii. 18, 36 ; John vi. 47 ; Isa.
xliii. I ; Ps. cvii. 2 ; John v. 24.
HAPPINESS OF THE SAVED.
Rev. ii..i7, 26 ; Rev. iii, 5, 12, 21.
SUDDENLY!
Thoughtful and observant men and
women must have noticed the events of
life that have come upon us suddenly.
We find as early as Miriam the Lord
spake to her, and she became leprous
" suddenly." Num. xii. 4, 10.
At the battle of Gibeon Joshua came
upon the people " suddenly." Josh. x.
9 ; xi. 7.
The temple v^as sanctified "suddenly."
2 Chron. xxix, 36.
The wicked are cursed "suddenly"
(without remedy). Ps, Ixiv. 7; Prov.
vi. 15.
Young men are entrapped ^^ suddenly."
Prov. vii. 22 ; Eccles. ix. 12.
The visitation of the Lord with thun-
der, earthquake, noise, storm, tempest,
flame, was, and is to be in an instant
"suddenly." Isaiah xxix. 5.
The daughter of Babylon was made a
widow and childless — desolate " sudden-
ly." Isaiah xlvii. 11 ; xlviii. 3.
Jerusalem was destroyed " suddenly."
Jer, iv. 20; vi, 26; xv. 8.
The war-cry was heard "suddenly."
Jer. xviii. 22; xlix. 19.
Babylon fell " suddenly." Jer. Ii. 8.
The spoiler of nations — the proud,
covetous, blood-thirsty, and violent, are
to be destroyed " suddenly;" Hab. ii. 7.
The Refiner and Purifier of the Gold
and the Silv^ shall come " suddenly,',
and who shall abide the day of His
coming? Mai. iii. i.
Angels ministered to the babe Jesus
" suddenly." Luke ii. 13.
Jesus was transfigured " suddenly."
i Mark ix. 8.
I Demons possessed, and possess, "sud-
denly." Luke viii. 28, 33 ; ix. 39
[o8
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
The Holy Ghost came " suddenly."
Acts ii. 2.
Saul of Tarsus was smitten " sudden-
ly." Acts ix. 3.
Paul and Silas in prison were liberated
" suddenly," and the prison gaoler con-
verted ' suddenly." Acts xvi. 26.
This mortal is to put on iinmortality,
and we are to be changed " suddenly ;"
" in a moment, in the twinkling of an
eye." i Cor. xv. 52, 53.
The Master Himself cometh " sud-
denly ;" watch therefore. Mark xiii. 36-
He who testifieth these things saith,
" I come quickly. Even so, come, Lord
Jesus."
May the Spirit bless this retrospect,
and day by day enable us all more de-
votedly to work in His strength and
more calmly to prepare to meet our
God — for every death-roll tells us that
old and young die " suddenly."
Sarah P. Atkinson
BLINDNESS.
Typical — Lev. xxi. 18, 21 ; xxii. 22 ;
Deut. XV. 21 ; Mai. i. 8.
bPiRiTUAL — ^Jer. v. 21 ; Isaiah xliv. 18 ;
xxix. 10, II ; vi. 9, 10; Judges xvi. 20;
Is. i. 3 ; Rom. xi. 25 ; 2 Cor. ii. 3, 14, 15.
Of the natural man — iCor. ii. 14;
2 Cor. iv. 3, 4 ; John xiv. 17 ; Acts xxvi.
17, 18; Eph. iv. 17, 18.
Exhortation — Eph. v. 8 ; 2 Peter i.
9, 10; I John i. 5, 6; ii. 9, 11; Rev.
iii. 17. 18.
SIN— GOD'S TESTIMONY
ABOUT IT.
Its Nature. — Sin is the transgression
of the law, or lawlessness, i John iii. 4.
All unrighteousness is sin. i John v. 17.
Its Origin. — ^The devil sinneth from
the beginning, i John iii. 8.
How it came into this World. — By one
• man sin entered into the world. Rom.
V. 12. And the Lord God commanded
the man saying, Of the tree of the know-
ledge of good and evil, thou shalt not
eat of it. Gen. iii. 16, 17. And he did
eat. Gen. iii. 6.
Its Extent — To all A fen. — The Scrip-
tures hath concluded ail under sin.
Gal. iii. 22. Both Jews and Gentiles,
they are all under sin, as it is written,
there is none righteous, no not one.
Rom. iii. 9, 10. There is no difiference
for all have sinned. Rom. iii. 22, 23.
There is not a just man upon earth that
doeth good and sinneth not. Ecc. vii.
20. If we say we have no sin we deceive
ourselves and the truth is not in us. i
John i. 8. We are all as an unclean
thing and all our righteousness are as
filthy rags. Isa. Ixiv. 6.
How it is Revealed. — By the law is the
knowledge of sin. Rom. iii. 20. I had
not known sin but by the law ; for I
had not known lust, except the law had
said, Thou shalt not covet. I was alive
without the law once : but when the
commandment came, sin revived and I
died. Rom. vii. 7, 9. Wherefore the
law was our schoolmaster, to bring us
to Christ that we might be justified by
faith. Gal. iii. 24.
Its End. — The soul that sinneth it
shall die. Ez. xviii. 4. The wages of
sin is death. Rom. vi. 23. Sin when
it is finished bringeth forth death. James
i. 18. Then Jesus said again unto them
— if ye believe not that I am he ye shall
die in your sins. John viii. 21, 24.
God Knows Them All. — O God thou
knowest my foolishness ; my sins are
not hid from thee. Psalm Ixix. 5. Thou
hast set our iniquities before thee, our
secret sins in the light of thy counten-
ance. Psalm xc. 8.
Will Certainly Find the Sinner. — Be
sure your sin will ifind you out. Num.
xxxii. 23. Fools make a mock at sin.
Prov. xiv. 9. Reader, do you think
lightly of sin ? Do you regard it as a
little thing ? Are you unconcerned and -
careless about your sin ? Do you make a
mock at it ? God says that such a man is a
fool. And viewed in the light of the
solemn declarations of Jehovah, no
wonder God so regards the man who
will trifle with sin.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
109
Haw we are Freed from it. — Without
shedding of blood is no remission. Heb.
ix. 22. The next day John seeth Jesus
coming unto him and saith, Behold the
Lamb of God which taketh away the
sin of the world. John i. 29. God com-
mendeth his love toward us in that
while we were yet sinners Christ died
for us. Rom. v. 8. Now once in the
end of the world hath he [Christ] ap-
peared to put away sin by the sacrifice
of himself. So .Christ was once offered
to bear the sins of many. Heb. ix.
26, 28. His own self bare our sins in
his own body on the tree, i Peter ii. 24.
And the blood of Jesus Christ his Son
cleanseth us from all sin. i John i. 7.
Be it known unto you, therefore, men
and brethren, that through this man is
preached anto you the forgiveness of
sins, and by him all that beheve are
justified from all things, from which
they could not be justified by the law of
Moses. Acts xiii. 38, 39.
What Becomes of the Believer's Sins ?
They are — Forgiven — God, for Christ's
sake, hath [not will] forgive )'^ou. Eph.
iv. 32. I write unto you little children
because your sins are [not shall be] for-
given you for his name's sake, i John
ii. 12.
Blotted Out — I have blotted out as
a thick cloud thy transgressions, and, as
a cloud thy sins. Isa. xliv. 22.
Covered— Thou hast covered all
their sin. Psalm Ixxxv. 2. Blessed is
he whose transgression is forgiven, whose
sin is covered. Psalm xxxii. i.
Removed — As far as the east is from
the west so far hath he removed our
transgressions from us. Psalm ciii, 12.
Cast into the Sea — Thou wiit cast
all their sins into the depths of the sea.
Micah vii. 19.
Hid — The iniquity of Ephraim is
bound up ; his sin is hid. Hos. xiii. 12.
Behind God's Back — Thou hast cast
all my sins behind thy back. Isaiah
xxxviii. 17.
Forgotten — I even I, am he that
blotteth out thy transgressions for mine-
own sake, and will not remember thy
sins. Isa. xliii. 25. And their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
Heb. X. 17.
Not to be even Mentioned unto
HIM — None of his sins that he hath
committed shall be mentioned unto him.
Ez. xxxiii. 16.
Believer, pondsr these precious figures
— forgiven, blotted out, covered, removed,,
cast into the sea, hid, behind God's back,
forgotten, not to be even mentioned. If
these figures do not teach ful/, perfect,
complete, and present salvation, what
language can teach it.
Conclusion. — Come now and let U3'
reason together, saith the Lord ; though
your sins be as scarlet they shall be
white as snow ; though they be red like
crimson they shall be as wool. Isa. i. 18.
OUR WARRANT FOR COMING TO-
CHRIST.
1. We are permitted to come.
"Whosoever will, let him take of the
water of life freely," Rev. xxii. 17; Rev.
xxi. 6; Isaiah Iv. i.
2. We are invited to come. "Come:
unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy
laden, and I will give you rest." Matt,
xi. 28.
3. We are entreated to come. "Now
then we are ambassadors for Christ, as
though God did beseech by us : we pray
in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to-
God." 2 Cor. V. 20.
4. W^e are commanded to come.
"This is His commandment, that we
should believe on the name of His Son
i Jesus Christ." i John iii. 23; Heb.xi.6,
5. We are comtfelled to come. "Go
out into the highways and hedges, and
compel them to come in, that my house
may be filled." Luke xiv. 23.
6. We are assured of a present and
certain salvation if we come. "God so
loved the world, that He gave His only
begotten Son, that whosoever belie veth<
in Him should not perish, but have-
everlasting life." John iii. 16; John vi.
37; John vi. 47 : Actsxvi. 31 ; Rom. iv. s
no
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
7. The sinner will be lost forever, if
lie does not come. "He that believeth
not shall be damned." Mark xvi. 16 ;
John iii. 18; John v. 40; 2 Thess. i. 7,8;
Heb. ii. 3; John iii. 36. J.H.B.
WHY MEN DO NOT BELIEVE
IN CHRIST.
Men often say that they would be glad
to become Christians, but they can not
believe the Bible. Belief, they affirm,
is a matter of simple reason and not
subject to the will. A man is no more
responsible for his belief than he is for
his complexion.
Now, Christ asserts the opposite of
this. He affirms that the reason why
men do not accept Him, is, that they
will not, (John v. 40) ; and that any man
who is willing to serve God, or to know
the truth, will infallibly come to believe
in Christ, (John vii. 17 ; xviii. 37).
If now, we examine the New Testa-
ment more widely, we shall see that, in
■every instance, where men are represent-
ed as failing to believe in Christ, it is
never merely because their intellect is
unconvinced : there is something sinful
either in heart or will.
The reasons why men do not believe
in Christ are these : —
Pride, which may be national. Matt,
iii. 9 ; John viii. 33 ; Acts xiii, 45 ; xvii.
5 ; xxii. 21, 22 ; intellectual. Matt. xi. 25 ;
John ix. 39-41 ; Rom. i. 21, 22; i Cor.
i. 19-21 ; or social, John vii. 48.
Self-righteousness, Mark ii. 16 ; Luke
vii. 39 ; xviii. 10, 14 ; Rom. x. 3,
Love of praise, John v. 44 ; xii. 43.
Love of the world, 3 Tim. iv. 10 ;
James iv. 4 ; i John ii. 15.
Love of money, Mark x. 17-24; Luke
xvi. 13, 14 ; I Tim. vi, 9, 10.
Cares of the world, Matt. xiii. 7, 22 ,
Luke X. 40.
Fear of man, John vii. 13 ; ix. 2:1 : xii.
42.
Worldly self-interest, Mark v. 16. 17 ;
John xi. 48.
Unwillingness 10 separate from im-
penitent friends. Luke ix. 59-62.
Unwillingness to believe what they can
not understand, John iii. 9 ; vi. 52. 60 ;
Acts xvii. 32 ; i Cor, ii. 14.
Unwillingness to have their sins ex-
posed, John iii. 19, 20.
Unwillingness to submit to God's
authority, Luke xix. 14 ; xx. 9-18.
Prejudice against the messenger, Matt.
xii. 24 ; xiii. 57 ; John i. 46 ; vi. 42 ; vii.
52 ; ix. 29.
Spiritual blindness. Matt. xiii. 15 ; i
Cor. ii. 14.
Unfaithfulness to the light which they
had, John xii. 36.
Waiting for a convenient season, Acts
xxiv. 25.
Frivolous excuses, Luke xiv. 18.
Lack of deep convictions, Matt. xiii.
5 ; xxii. 5.
Lack of earnestness, Luke xiii. 24.
Neglect of the Bible, Luke xxiv. 25 ;
John V. 39 ; vii. 27; Acts xvii. 11, 12.
Neglect of religious meetings, John xx.
24.
Blindness to special opportunities,
Luke xix. 44.
Desire for special signs, Matt. xii. 38.
39 ; xvi. 1-4 ; John vi. 30 ; i Cor. i. ^z.
Regard for human traditions. Matt.
XV. 9 ; Mark ii. 23-28.
Insincerity. Matt. xv. 7, 8 ; xxi. 25-31 ;
Acts xxiv. 26.
A controversial spirit, Matt. xxii. 15-
40.
A murmuring spirit, Matt. xxv. 24.
Having no desire for God, John v. 43 ;
Rom. i. 28.
Hatred of God and of Christ, John
XV. 22-25.
Hatred of the truth, Acts vii. 51-54;
2 Thess. ii. 10-12 ; 2 Tim. iv. 3.
The power of the devil, Matt. xiii. 4,
19 ; John viii. 44 ; 2 Cor. iv. 3, 4.
These passages embrace nearly the
entire teaching of the word of God on
this subject. That word, which is " a
discerner of the thoughts and intents of
the heart," (Heb. iv. 12), as truly inter-
prets human nature to-day as it did in
the days of Christ and the apostles. It
is not intellectual doubt which Iceeps
men from believing in Christ : it is sin
in the heait. They are responsible for
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Ill
rejecting the Saviour. The sentence
pronounced in John iii. 36, is just. We
are not arguing with sincere honest
doubters, but with men who at heart are
opposed to Christ and to God. We
need in our arguments to be possessed
by the spirit of i Cor. iv. 2-5 ; 2 Tim. i-' •
23-26. E. P. Gardner.
INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY.
Rom. xiv. 12; Isa. xlv. 23; Phil. ii.
do, II; Matt. xii. 36 : Gal. vi. 4, 5 ;
Rom. ii. 6 ; i Cor. iii. 8 ; Job. xxxiv.
II ; Psalm Ixii. 12; Prov. xxiv. 12 ,
Jar. xvii. 10 and 32, 19 ; i Peter iv. 5 ;
Matt. xiv. 24 . Luke ix, 23-26 ; 2 Cor.
iv. 14-17; Matt. XXV. 31, 32; Rev. ii.
23; Rev. XX. 12; Rev. xxii. 12; Mark
xiii. 34; Matt, xxv. 14-46; Luke xvii.
■ID; Ezek. xxxiii. i-ii.
THE FOOL.
1. His Belief. — The fool has said in
tiis heart, There is no God, Ps. xiv. i.
2. His Walk. — The wise man's eyes
are in his head, buth the fool walketh in
darkness. Ecc. ii. 14.
3. His Standing Before God. —
When thou vowest a vow unto God, de-
fer not to pay it ; for he hath no pleasure
in fools : pay that which thou hast vowed .
Ecc. V. 4. The foolish shall not stand in
thy sight. Ps. v. 5.
4. His Mirth. — The heart of fools is
in the house of mirth, Ecc. vii. 4. For
as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so
is the laughter of fools. This also is
•vanity, Ecc. vii. 6.
5. His Food. — The words of a wise
ahan's mouth are gracious : but the lips of
a fool \yill swallow up himself, Ecc. x.
12.
6. His House. — Every one that hear-
^th these sayings of mine, and doeth them
not, shall be likened unto a foolish man,
which built his house upon the sand,
Matt. vii. 26.
7. His End, — Thou fool ! this night
'thy soul shall be required of thee, Luke
jcii. 20.
THE FOOL.
HIS PERSON,
His eyes are in the ends of the earth,
Prov. xvii. 24.
His ears despise wisdom, Prov. xxiii. 9.
His mouth smoother than oil, Prov. v.
3.
His mouth near destruction, Prov. x.
14.
His mouth in it a rod of pride, Prov.
xiv. 3.
His mouth poureth out foolishness,
Prov. XV. 2.
His mouth feedethon foolishness, Prov.
XV. 14.
His mouth is his destruction, Prov.
xviii. 7.
His mouth calleth for strokes, Prov.
xviii. 6.
His lips enter into contention, Prov.
xviii. 6,
His lips swallow up himself, Ecc. x. 12.
His lips are the snare of his soul, Prov.
xviii. 7.
His tongue flattereth, Prov, vi. 24.
His tongue shall be cut out, Prov. x, 31 .
His voice known by multitude of
words, Ecc. v. 3.
His neck stiff. Ps. Ixxv. 45,
His bosom, anger resteth there, Ecc.
vii. 9,
His heart saith there is no God, Ps.
xiv. I.
His heart fretteth against the Lord,
Prov. xix. 3.
His heart is in the house of mirth, Ecc.
vii. 4.
His heart is slow to believe, Luke xxiv.
His hands (passive) folded together,
Ecc. iv. 5.
His hands (active) pluck down the
house, Prov. xiv. i.
His back, a rod and stripes prepared
for it, Prov. x. 13 ; Prov. xix. 29.
His feet go down to death, Prov. v. 5.
His steps take hold on hell, Prov. v. 5.
HIS FOOD.
His own flesh, Ecc. iv, 5.
His foolishness, Prov. xv. 14.
Fruit of his own way, Prov. i. 31.
His own devices, Prov. i, 31.
Ashes, Isa. xliv. 20.
HIS CHARACTER AND WAY.
He says in his heart, NO GOD, Psa.
xiv. I,
His way is right in his own eyes, Prov.
xii. 15.
He trusts his own heart, Prov. xxviiL
26.
112
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
He rageth and is confident. Prov. xiv.
i6.
He is soon angry, Prov. xiv. 17.
He answereth a matter before hearing
it, Prov. xviii, 13.
He uttereth slander; Prov. x, 18.
He uttereth all his mind, Prov. xix. ii.
He enters into contention, Prov. xviii.
6.
He layeth up treasure for himself, Luke
xii. 21.
. H e is not rich towards God, Luke xii.
21.
He builds his house on the sand, Matt.
vii. 26.
He takes a lamp without oil, Matt.
xicv. 3.
He doubts resurrection, i Cor. xv. 36.
He is slow of heart to believe, Luke
xxiv. 25.
He would be made perfect by the flesh.
Gal. iii. 3.
He despiseth wisdom, Prov. xxiii. 9.
He despiseth instruction, Prov. i. 7,
He despiseth his father's instruction,
Prov. XV. 5.
He despiseth his mother, Prov. xv, 20.
He despiseth his own soul, Prov. xv.
32.
Meddling, Prov. xx. 3.
He layeth open his folly, Prov. xiii. 16.
He saith to every one he is a fool, Ecc,
X, 3.
He hates knowledge, Prov. i, 21.
His abomination is to depart from evil,
Prov. xiii. 19.
He reproacheth God daily ,Psa.lxxiv.22.
Clamorous, Prov. ix. 13.
Simple, Prov, ix. 13.
He knoweth nothing, Prov. ix. 13.
He poureth out foolishness, Prov. xv. 2.
His father hath no joy, Prov. xvii, 21.
To him he is a grief, Prov. xvii. 25.
To him he is a calamity, Prov. xix, 13.
To his mother he is a bitterness, Prov.
xvii. 25.
To his mother he is heaviness, Prov.
X. I.
To his companions he is destruction,
Prov. xiii. 20.
HIS PLEASURES.
To mock at sin, Prov. xiv. 9.
Folly his joy, Prov. xv. 21.
His laughter as the crackling of thorns
under a pot, Eccl. vii. 6.
Mischief his sport, Prov. x. 23.
HtS PROMOTION.
Shame, Prov. iii. 35.
Prosperity shall destroy him, Prov.i.32.
HIS INCURABLENESS.
The instruction of fools is folly, Prov.
xvi. 3.
Though thou shouldst bray a fool in a
mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet
will not his foolishness depart from him,
Prov. xxvii. 22.
A hundred stripes will not enter intO'
him, Prov. xvii. 10.
HIS END.
He dies for want of wisdom, Prov. x. 21 .
Thou fool this night thy soul shall be
required of thee, Luke xii. 20.
The great God shall reward him, Prov,
xxvi. 10.
PRESENT SALVATION FOR YOU,
1. All have sinned, and come short
of the glory of God. Rom. iii. 23, Th&
Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of
us all. Isaiah liii. 6.
2. If we say that we have no sin, we
deceive ourselves, and the truth is not
in us. I John i. 8. He hath made
Him to be sin for us, who knew no
sin ; that we might be made the right-
eousness of God in Him. 2 Cor. v. ^i,
3. When we were yet without strength,
in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
Rom. v. 6. God commendeth his love
toward us, in that, while we were yet
sinners, Christ died for us, Rom. v. 8.
Who his own self bare our sins in His
own body on the tree, that we, being
dead to sins, should live unto righteous-
ness ; by whose str>es ye were healed.
I Peter ii. 24. He was wounded for
our transgressions. He was bruised for
our iniquities : the chastisement of our
peace was upon Him ; and with His
stripes we are healed. Isaiah liii. 5.
Jesus said, " It is finished." John
xix. 30.
4. As Moses lifted up the serpent in
the wilderness, even so must the Son of
Man be lifted up : That whosoever be-
lieveth in Him should not perish, but
have eternal life. For God so loved the
world, that He gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in Him
should not perish, but hav^ everlasting
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
1^3
life. John iii. 14 — 16. And it shall
come to pass, that whosoever shall call
on the Name ot the Lord shall be saved.
Acts ii. 21. Whosoever believeth in
Him shall receive remission of sins.
Acts X. 43. If thou shalt confess with
thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt
believe in thine heart that God hath
raised Him from the dead, thou shalt
be saved. Rom. x. 9.
5 . This is his commandment that we
should believe on the Name of his Son
Jesus Christ, i John iii. 23. He that
believeth not God hath made Him a
liar ; because he believeth not the record
that God gave of his Son. i John v.
10. He that believeth on Him is not
condemned : but he that believeth not
is condemned already, because he hath
not believed in the Name of the only
begotten Son of God. John iii. 18.
There is therefore now no condemnation
to them which are in Christ Jesus, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the
Spirit. Rom. viii. i. As many as re-
ceived Him, to them gave he power to
become the sons of God, even to them
that believe on his Name. John i. 12.
Therefore being justified by faith, we
have peace with God through our Lord
Jesus Christ. Rom. v. i.
6. The wages of sin is death ; but the
gift of God is eternal life through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Rom. vi. 23. I give
unto them eternal life; and they shall
never perish, neither shall any man
pluck them out of my hand. John x.
28. He that believeth on Me hath ever-
lasting life. John vi. 47. These things
have I written unto you that believe on
the Name of the Son of God, that ye
may know that ye have eternal life.
I John V. 13.
7. If we confess our sins. He is faith-
ful and just to forgive us our sins, and
to c:=-r.s2 us from all unrighteousness.
I John i. 9. I have blotted out, as a
thick cloud, thy transgressions, and. as
a cloud, thy sins : return unto Me ; for
8
I have redeemed thee. Isaiah sliv, 22.
Thou hast cast all my sins behind thy
back. Isaiah xxxviii. 17. Thou wilt
cast all their sins into the depths of the
sea. Micah vii. 19. As far as the
east is from the west, so far hath He
removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm ciii. 12. Their sins and iniquities
will I remember no more. Heb. x. 17.
8. I write unto you, little children,
because your sins are forgiven you for
His Name's sake, i John ii. 12. I love
them that love Me ; and those that seek
Me early shall find Me. Proverbs viii.
17. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me,
when ye shall search for Me with all
your heart. Jer. xxix. 13. Ask; and it
shall be given you; seek and ye shall
find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto
you. Matt. vii. 7.
9. Come unto Me, all ye that labour
and are heavy laden, ancf I will give you
rest. Matt. xi. 28. And let him that
is athirst come. And whosoever will,
let him take the water of life freely.
Rev, xxii. 17. Jesus said. Suffer little
children to come unto Me, and forbid
them not : for of such is the kingdom of
God. Luke xviii. 16. Him that cometh
to Me, I will in no wise cast out. John
vi. 37. He is able also to save them to the
uttermost that come unto God by Him,
seeing He ever liveth to make interces'
sion for them. Heb. vii. 25.
10. Fear not : for I have redeemed
thee, I have called thee by thy name ;
thou art mine. Isaiah xliii. i. Peace
I leave with you. My peace I give unto
you. John xiv. 27. He hath said, " I
will never leave thee, nor forsake thee*
Heb. xiii. 5. God is faithful, who will
not suffer you to be tempted above' that
ye are able ; but will with the temptation
also make a way to escape, that ye may
be able to bear it. i Cor. x. 13. I will
heal their backsliding, I will love them
freely. Hosea xiv. 4.
11. Come now. and let us reason to-
gether, saith the Lord: though your
114
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white
as snow ; though they be red like crim-
son, they shall be as wool. Isaiah i, i8.
Behold, now is the accepted time ; be-
hold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Cor.
»i.- 2. Choose you this day whom ye
•vill sei"ve. Joshua xxiv. 15.
THE BLOOD MAKETH AN
ATONEMENT FOR THE SOUL.
Leviticus xvii. 11; Exodus xii. 13;
Hebrews ix. 7, 14, 22 ; i John i. 9 ; Col.
i. 14 ; Ephesians ii. 13 ; i Peter i. 18,
19 ; Revelation v. 9 ; Revelation vii. 14 ;
Revelation i. 5.
THREE GREAT FACTS.
man's state by nature.
God saw that the wickedness of man
was great in the earth, and that every
imagination of the thoughts of his heart
was only evil continually. Gen. vi. 5.
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and
in sin did my mother conceive me.
Psalms li. 5.
The heart is deceitful above all things,
and desperately wicked ; who can know
it ? Jer. xvii. 9.
From within, out of the heart of men,
proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, forni-
cations, murders, thefts, covetousness,
wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil
eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. Mark
vii. 21, 22,
That which is bom of the flesh is flesh.
John iii. 6.
The carnal mind [or rather, the mind
of the flesh], is enmity against God; for
it is not subject to the law of God, neither
indeed can be. Rom. viii. 7.
And you hath he quickened who were
dead in trespasses and sins — and were by
nature the children of wrath even as others.
Eph. ii. I, 2.
man's state by practice.
They are all gone aside, they are
altogether become filthy; there is none
that doeth good, no, not one. Psalms
xiv. 3.
There is not a just man upon earth,
that doeth good, and sinneth not. Ecc.
vii. 20.
We are all as an unclean thing, and all
our righteousness are as filthy rags ; and
we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniqui-
ties, like the wind, have taken us away.
Isaiah Ixiv. 6.
There is none righteous, no, not one.
Rom. iii. 10.
There is no difference ; for all have
sinned, and come short of the glory of
God. Rom. iii. 22, 23.
By one man sin enter**^' into the world,,
and death by sin ; and death passed
upon all men, for that all have sinned.
Rom. V. 12.
If we say that we have no sin we
deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in
us ; — if we say that we have not sinned,
we make Him a liar, i John i. 8, 10.
there must be a change.
Except ye be converted, and become
as little ckildren, ye shall, not enter into
the kingdom of heaven. Matt, xviii. 3.
Except ye repent,. ye shall all likewise
perish. Luke xiii. 3,
Except a man be born again [or from
above], he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John iii. 3.
The wages of sin is death. Rom. vi.23.
Cursed is every one that continue th not
in all things which are written in the
book of the law to do them. Gal. iii. 10.
Sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth
death, James i. 15.
He that committeth sin is of the devil.
I John iii. 18.
HELL.
IS THERE A HELL ?
For if God spared not the angels that
sinned, but cast them down to hell, 2
Peter ii. 4.
Her house is the way to hell, going
down to the chambers of death, Prov. vii.
27.
The way of life is above to the wise,
NOTES FOR BIDLE READINGS.
"5
that he may depart from hell beneath,
Prov. XV. 24.
But I will forewarn you whom ye shall
fear ; fear Him which, after he hath killed,
hath power to cast into hell, Luke xii. 5.
'And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off ;
it is better for thee to enter into life
maimed than having two hands to go into
hell, Mark ix. 43.
Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers ;
how can ye escape the damnation of hell,
Matt, xxiii, 33.
The wicked shall be turned into hell,
and all the nations that forget God, Psa.
ix. 17.
WHAT KIND OF A PLACE IS IT ?
The sinners in Zion are afraid ; fearful-
ness hath surprised the hypocrites, who
among us shall dwell with the devouring
fire ! Who among us shall dwell with
everlasting burnings, Isa. xxxiii. 14,
The same shall drink of the wine of the
wrath of God, which is poured out with-
out mixture into the cup of his indigna-
tion ; and he shall be tormented with fire
and brimstone, Rev. xiv. 10,
And the beast was taken, and with him
the false prophet that wrought miracles
before him, with which he deceived them
that had received the mark of the beast,
and them that worshipped his image.
These both were cast alive into a lake of
fire burning with brimstone, Rev. xix. 20.
And the devil that deceived them was
cast into the lake of fire and brimstone
where the beast and false prophet are,
and shall be tormented day and night for
€ver and ever ********
And death and hell were cast into the
lake of fire. This is the second death.
And whosoever was not found written in
the book of life was cast into the lake of
fire, Rev, xx. 10, 14, 15.
But the fearful and unbelieving, and
the abominable, and murderers, and
whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idola-
ters, and all liar^ shall have their place
in the lalce which burneth with fire aad
brimstone ; which is the second death,
Rev. xxi. 8.
The Son of Man shall send forth his
angels, and they shall gather out of his
kingdom all things that offend and them
which do iniquity, and shall .cast them in-
to a furnace of fire ; there shall be wail-
ing and gnashing of teeth, Matt. xiii. 41,
42.
IS THE PUNISHMENT EVERLASTING ?
Who among us shall dwell with the de-
vouring fire ? Who among us shall dwell
with everlasting burnings, Isa, xxxiii. 14.
And some of them that sleep in the
dust of the earth shall awake, some to
everlasting life and some to shame and
everlasting contempt, Dan. xii, 2.
Whose fan is in his hand, and he will
thoroughly purge his floor and gather his
wheat into the gamer ; but he will bum
up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Matt,
iii. 12.
And if thy hand offend thee cut it off ;
it is better for thee to enter into life
maimed, than having two hands to go in-
to hell, into the fire that never shall be
quenched ; where their worm dieth not
and the fire is not quenched, Mark ix. 43,
44.
Then shall he say also unto them on
the left hand, Depart from me, ye accur-
sed into everlasting fire, prepared for the
devil and his angels. Matt. xxv. 41.
Read, also, Luke xvi. 22-26 inclusive.
WHO GO THERE.
The Fool — Prov. xv. 24. Adulterers —
Prov. vii. 27. Those who offend — Matt,
xiii. 41, 42. Those who fear not God —
Luke xii. 5. Lustful Persons — 2 Peter
ii. 4, ID. Hypocrites — Isa. xxxiii. 14.
Pharisees — Matt." xxiii. 33. Wicked —
Ps. ix. 17. Unbelievers, etc. — Rev. xxi.
8. Those whose names are not in the
book of life — Rev. xx, 15. Whose names
are in the book of life ? — Rev. iii. 5 .
Who overcome? — ^John v. 4, 5.
By these last three passages we under-
•stand that all who reject Christ are cast
into hell.
IlC)
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Neither is there salvation in any other ;
for there is none other name under heaven
given among men whereby we must be
saved, Acts iv. 12.
We pra}' that no one who ■ may read
this may be " cast into outer darkness."
— L. W. MUNHALL.
ALL ARE SINNERS.
Ecclesiastes vii. 20 ; Proverbs xx. 9 ; i
John i. 8 ; Romans iii. 9, 10, ii, 12, 19,
22. 2'
Isaiah liii. 6.
WE CANNOT BE SAVED BY
WORKS.
James ii. 10 ; Isaiah xliv. 6 ; Ephe-
sians ii. 8, 9 ; Romans iv. 5 ; Romans iii.
20 ; Romans xi. 6 ; Romans x. 3 ; Acts
xiii. 39.
JESUS HAS FINISHED THE
W^ORK.
John xix. 36 ; Hebrews ix. 26, 28 ; i
John i. 7 ; I Peter iii. 18.
BACKSLIDERS.
Jeremiah xiv. 7 ; Jeremiah ii. 9 ; Jere-
miah iii. 22 ; Rosea xiv. 1,4; Luke xxii.
61, 62 : Luke xv. i to 22,
SEVEN SOLEMN QUESTIONS-
HE IS ABLE.
2 Timothy i. 12 ; Ephesians iii. 20 ; 2
Corinthians ix. 8 ; Jude 24 ; Philippians
iii. 21 ; Hebrews vii. 25 ; Daniel iii. 17 ;
Hebrews ii. 18; Romans xiv. 4 ; Acts xx«
32 ; Matthew ix. 28.
FEAR NOT.
John xiv. I, 27 ; Isaiah U. 12 ; Isaiah
xii. 10, 13, 14 ; Deuteronomy xxxi. 8 ;
Joshua i. 9 ; Psalm xxvii. i ; Psalm iii.
6 ; Psalm Ivi. 3, 4.
DOOR OF MERCY NOT ALWAYS
OPEN.
Luke xiii. 25, 27 ; 2 Corinthians vi. 2 j
Proverbs i. 24 to the end ; Jeremiah viii,
20.
WHO ARE INVITED.
Matthew xi. 28 ; Isaiah Iv, i ; Revel-
ation XX. 17 ; Matthew x. 12, 13 j Mat-
thew xxii. 9, 10 ; Luke xiv. 21, 22, 23 ;
John vii. 37.
GOD WILL KEEP YOU.
John X. 28 ; Jude 24 ; 2 Timothy i. 12 ;
2 Corinthians xii. 9 ; Philippians i, 6.
PEACE WITH GOD.
Job. xxii. 21 ; Colossians i. 20; Ephe-
sians ii. 14, 17 ; Romans v. i.
WHAT IS SIN ?
Proverbs xxiv. 9 ; i John iii. 4 ; Mat-
tnew xii. 36 ; James iv. 17 ; Proverbs x,
ip ; Proverbs xiv. 9 ; Numbers xxxii. 23 j
Ezekiei xvui. 4.
r.^WHOM AM I TO BELIEVE ?
If it seem evil unto you to serve the
Lord, choose you this day whom ye will
serve, Josh. xxiv. 15.
How long halt ye between two opin-
ions ? if the Lord be God, follow him :
but if Baal, then follow him, i Kings
xviii. 21.
All nations before him are as nothing ;
and they are counted to him less than
nothing, and vanity. To whom theQ
will ye liken God? Isa. xi. 17, i8.
Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the
ends of the earth ; for I am God, and
there is none else, Isa. xiv. 22.
And the Father himself, which hath
sent me, hath borne witness of me, John
V. 37.
If I do not the works of my Father,
believe me not. But if I do, though ye
believe not me, believe the works : that
ye may know and believe, that the
Father is in me, and I in him, John x»
37. 38.
If we receive the witness of men, the
witness of God is greater : for this is the
witness of God, which he hath testified
of his Son. He that believeth on the
Son of God hath the witness in himself;
he that believeth not God hath made
him a liar ; because he believeth not the
record (witness) that God gave of his
Sou, I John v. 9, 10.
ir. — WHAT AM I TO BELIEVE ?
God so loved the world that he gavtt
his only begotten Son, that whosoeveir
believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life, John iii. 16,
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
117
He that heareth my word, and be-
lieveth on him that sent me, hath ever-
lasting life, and shall not come into
<;Qndemnation ; but is passed from death
unto life, John v. 24.
To him give all the prophets vi^itness,
that through his name whosoever be-
lieveth in him shall receive remission of
sins. Acts X. 43.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and
thou shalt be saved, and thy house,
Acts xvi. 31.
God commendeth his love toward us,
in that, while we were yet . sinners,
Christ died for us, Rom. v. 8.
The blood of Jesus Christ his Son
<:leanseth us from all sin, i John i. 7.
And this is the record [witness] , that
-God hath given to us eternal life, and
this life is in his Son. He that hath
the Son hath life ; and he that hath not
the Son of God, hath not life, i John v.
II, 12.
III. — HOW AM I TO BELIEVE ?
See, here is water ; what doth hinder
me to be baptized ? And Phillip said.
If thou believest with all thine heart,
thou mayest. And he answered and
said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the
Son of God, Acts viii. 36, 37.
To him that worketh not, but believeth
on him that justifieth the ungodly, his
faith is counted for righteousness, Rom.
iv. 5.
Ye have obeyed from the heart that
form of doctrine which was delivered
you, Rom. vi. 17.
If thou shalt confess with thy mouth
the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in
thine heart that God hath raised him
from the dead, thou shalt be saved,
Rom X. 9.
Knowing that a man is not justified
by the works of the law, but by the faith
of Jesus Christ, even we have believed
in Jesus Christ, that we might be justi-
fied by the faith of Christ, and not by
the works of the law ; for by the works
of the law shall no flesh be justified,
Gal. ii. if).
By grace are ye saved through faith ;
and that not of yourselves ; it is the gift
of God.— Eph. ii. 8.
Hereby we know that he abideth in
us, by the Spirit which he hath given ns,
— I John iii. 24,
IV. — WHY AM I TO BELIEVE ?
He that believeth not shall be damn-
ed.—Mark xvi. 16.
He that believeth on him is not con-
demned: but he that believeth not is
condemned already, because he hath
not believed in the name of the only
begotten Son of God. — ^John iii. 18.
He that believeth not the Son shall
not . see life ; but the wrath of God
abideth on him. — John iii. 36.
This is the work of God, that ye
believe on him whom He hath sent. —
John vi. 29.
The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from
heaven with his mighty angels, in flam-
ing fire taking vengeance on them that
know not God, and that obey not the
gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. — 2
Thess. i. 7, 8.
This is his commandment. That we
should believe on the name of his Son
Jesus Christ. — i John iii. 23.
The fearful, and unbelieving, and the
abominable, and murderers, and whore-
mongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters,
and all liars, shall have their part in the
lake which burneth with fire and brim-
stone : which is the second death.— Rev,
xxi, 8.
v. — WHEN AM I TO BELIEVE ?
Come : for all things are now ready. —
Luke xiv. 17.
Behold, now is the accepted time;
behold, now is the day of salvation. — 2
Cor. vi. 2.
For yourselves know perfectly that
the day of the Lord so cometh as a
thief in the night. — i Thess. v. 2.
Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith,
To-day if ye will hear his voice, harden
not your hearts. — Heb. iii. 7, 8,
For yet a little while, and he that
it8
NOTES FOR BIBLE. READINGS.
shall come will come, and will not tarry.
— Heb. X. 37.
Behold, the judge standeth before the
door. — James v. 9.
He which testifieth these things saith,
Surely I come quickly. — Rev. xxii. 20.
VI. — MAY I BELIEVE AS I AM ?
Come unto me, all ye that labour and
are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
—Matt. xi. 28.
The Son of man is come to seek and
to save that which was lost. — Luke xix.
10.
Him that cometh unto me I will in no
wise cast out. — ^John vi, 37.
If any man thirst, let him come unto
me, and drink.^John vii. 37.
Christ is the end of the law for right-
eousness to every one that believeth. —
Rom. X. 4.
This is a faithful saying, and worthy
of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus
came into the world to save sinners • of
whom I am chief. — ^^i Tim. i. 15.
Whosoever will, let him take the
water of life freely. — Rev. xxii. 17.
VII. — CAN I BE SAVED WITHOUT BELIEV-
ING?
Neithet is there salvation in any other ;
for there is none other name under
heaven given among men, whereby we
must be saved.— Acts iv. 12.
Whatsoever is not of faith is sin. —
Rom. xiv. 23.
If righteousness come by the law, then
Christ is dead in vain. — Gal. ii. 21.
If there had been a law given which
could have given life, verily righteous-
ness should have been by the law.. — Gal.
iii. 21.
How shall we escape, if we neglect so
great salvation. — Heb. ii. 3.
But without faith it is impossible to
please him. — Heb. xi. 6.
The time is come that judgment must
begin at the house of God: and if it
first begin at us, what shall the end be
of them that obey not the gospel of
God ? And if the righteous scarcely be
saved, where shall the ungodly and
sinner appear ? — i Peter iv. 17, 18.
TWELVE GREAT FACTS.
"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but
my words shall not pass away." —
Matt. XXV. 35.
I. — man's state by nature.
God saw that the wickedness of man
was great in the earth, and that every
imagination of the thoughts of his heart
was only evil continually — Gen. vi. 5.
Behold I was shapen in iniquity, and
in sin did my mother conceive me. — Ps.
Ii. 5.
The heart is deceitful above all things,
and desperately wicked : who can know
it ? — ^Jer. xvii. 9.
From within, out of the heart of men,
proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, forni-
cations, murders, thefts, covetousness»
wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an
evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.
— Mark vii. 21, 22.
That which is born of the flesh is flesh.
— ^John iii. 6.
The carnal mind [or rather, the mind
of the flesh] is enmity against God : for
it is not subject to the law of God,
neither indeed can be. — Rom. viii. 7.
And you hath he quickened who were
dead in trespasses and sins — and were
by nature the children of wrath even as
others. — Eph. ii. i, 2.
II. — man's state by PRACTICE.
They are all gone aside, they are all
together become filthy ; there is none
that doeth good, no, not one. — Ps. xiv. 3.
There is not a just man upon earth„
that doeth good, and sinneth not. — EccL
vii. 20.
We are all as an unclean thing, and
all our righteousness are as filthy rags ;
and we all do fade as a leaf ; and our
iniquities, like the wind, have taken us
away. — Isa. Ixiv. 6.
There is none righteous, no, not one.
— Rom. iii, 10.
There is no difference ; for all have
sinned, and come short of the glory of
God. — Rom. iii, 22. 23.
By one man sin entered into the world,
i and death by sin ; and so death passed
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Jig
upon all nien, for that all have sinned. —
jRom. V. 12.
If we say that we have no sin, we de-
ceive ourselves, and the truth is not in
us ; — if we say that we have not sinned,
we make him a liar. — i John i. 8, lo.
III. THERE MUST BE A CHANGE.
Except ye be converted, and become
as little children, ye shall not enter into
the kingdom of heaven. — Matt, xviii. 3.
Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise
perish. — Luke xiii. 3.
Except a man be bom again [or from
above] , he can not see the kingdom of
God. — John iii. 3.
The wages of sin is death. — Rom. vi.
23.
Cursed is every one that continueth
not in all things which are written in the
book of the law to do them. — Gal. iii.
10.
Sin when it is finished, bringeth forth
death. — ^Jamesi. 11;.
He that committeth sin is of the devil.
— I John iii. 8.
IV. god's THOUGHTS OF MAN.
As^I live, saith the Lord God, I have
no pleasure in the death of the wicked ;
but that the wicked turn from his way
and live. Eze. xxxiii. 11.
God so loved the world, that he gave
his only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in Him should not perish, but
have everlasting life. John iii. 16.
God commendeth his love towards
us, in that while we were yet sinners,
Christ died for us. Rom. v. 8.
God our Saviour, who will have all
men to be saved, and to come unto the
knowledge of the truth, i Tim. ii. 3, 4.
The grace of God that bringeth sal-
vation hath appeared to ail men. Titus
ii. II.
The Lord — is long-suffering to us-
ward, not willing that any should perish,
but that all should come to repentance.
2 Pet. iii.. 9. I
Herein is love, not that we loved j
God, but that he loved us, and sent his Sea i
to be the propitiation for our sins. . 1
John iv. 10.
V. Christ's work for man.
He was wounded for our transgres-
sions, he was bruised for our iniquities :
the chastisement of our peace was upon
him ; and with his stripes we are healed.
Isa. liii, 5.
The Son of Man came not to be min-
istered unto, but to minister, and to give
his life a ransom for many. Matt. xx. 28.
When we were yet without strength,
in due time Christ died for the uneodlv.
Rom. v. 7, s J
Christ died for our sins according to
the Scriptures, i Cor. xv. 31.
He hath made him to be sin for us,
who knew no sin : that we might be
made the righteousness of God in him.
2 Cor. V. 21.
Christ hath redeemed us from the
curse of the law, being made a curse for
us. Gal. iii. 13,
Who his own self bare our sins in his
own body on the tree, i Pet. ii. 24.
VI. VALUE OF Christ's blood.
When I see the blood, I will pass
over you, and the plague shall not be
upon you to destroy you. Ex. xii. 13.
It is the blood that maketh an atone-
ment for the soul. Lev. xvii. 1 1 .
This is my blood of the new testa-
ment, which is shed for many for the re-
mission of sins. Matt. xxvi. 28.
In whom we have redemption through
his blood. Eph. i. 7.
Ye were not redeemed with corrup-
tible things — but with the precious blood
of Christ. I Pet. i. 18, 19.
The blood of Jesus Christ his Son
cleanseth us from all sin. i John i. 7.
Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed
us to God by thy blood. Rev. v. 9.
VII. Christ's invitations to sinners.
Come unto me, all ye that labor and
are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matt. xi. 28.
Come, for all things are now ready.
Luke xiv. 17.
I20
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
.S.J that the Father giveth me shall
come to me ; and him that cometh to me
I will in no wise cast out. John vi. 37.
If any man thirst, let him come mito
me anddrink. John vii. 37.
I am . the door : by me, if any man
enter in, he shall be saved. John x. 9.
I will give unto him that is athirst of
the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev. xxi. 6,
Whosoever will, let him take the
water of life freely. Rev. xxii. 17.
VIII. WHAT CHRIST IS ABLE TO DO.
He is able also to save them to the utter-
most that come unto God by him. Heb.
vii. 25.
He is able to succor them that are
tempted. Heb. ii. 18.
He is able to keep that which I have
committed unto him against that day. 2
Tim. i. 12.
Being fully persuaded that, what he
had promised, he was able also to per-
foim. Rom. iv. 21.
He is able to make all grace abound
towaid you. 2 Cor. ix. 8.
He is able to do exceeding abundant-
ly above all that we ask or think. Eph.
iii. 20.
He is able to keep you from falling,
and to present you faultless before the
presence of his glory with exceeding joy.
Jude 24.
IX. HOW TO BE SAVED.
He that believeth on him is not con-
demned. John iii. 18.
He that believeth on the Son hath
everlasting life. John iii. 36.
To him give all the prophets witness,
that through his name whosoever believ-
eth in him shall receive remission of
sins. Acts x. 43.
By him all that beli'^ve are justified
from all things. Acts xiii. 39.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,
and thou shalt be saved. Acts xvi. 31.
To him that worketh not, but be-
lieveth on him that justifieth the ungodly,
his faith is counted for righteousness.
Rom. iv. 5.
If thou shalt confess with thy mouth
the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine
heart that God hath raised him from the
dead, thou shalt be saved. Rom. x. 9.
X. HOW TO BE LOST FOREVER.
He that believeth not shall be damn-
ed. Mark xvi. 16.
He that believeth not is condemned
already, because he hath not believed in
the name of the only begotten Son of
God. John iii. 18.
He that believeth not the Son shall
not see life ; but the wrath of God abid-
eth on him. John iii. 36.
Ye will not come to me, that ye might
have life. John v. 40.
If ye believe not that I am, ye shall
die in your sins. John viii. 14.
In flaming fire taking vengeance on
them that know not God, and that obey
not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thess. i, 8.
How shall we escape, if we neglect
so great salvation. Heb. ii. 3.
XI. HOW WE MAY KNOW WE ARfc
SAVED.
He that heareth my word, and be-
lieveth on him that sent me, hath ever-
lasting life, and shall not come into con-
demnation [judgment] ; but is passed
fron death unto life. John v. 24.
Verily, verily, I say unto you. He
that believeth on me HATH everlasting
life. John vi. 47.
This is the will of him that sent me,
that every one which seeth the Son, and
believeth on him, may have everlasting
life ; and I will raise him up at the last
day. John vi. 40.
I give unto them eternal life ; and they
shall never perish, neither shall any pluck
them out of my hand. John x. 28.
Hereby we know that he abideth in
us, by the Spirit which he hath given
us. I John iii. 10.
And we have known and believed the
love that God hath to us, i Johniv. 16.
These things have I written unto you
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
121
that believe on the name of the Son of
<k)d ; that ye may know that ye have
•eternal life. — i John v. 13.
XII. NO TIME TO BE LOST.
My Spirit shall not always strive with
«ia;i. Gen. vi. 3.
Boast not thyself of to-morrow ; for
sthou knowest not what a day may bring
forth. Prov. xxvii. i.
If we tarry till the morning light, some
ffliischief will come upon us. 2 Kings
vii. 9.
Therefore be ye also ready : for in such
an hour as ye think not, the Son of Man
icometh. Matt. xxiv. 44.
Behold, now is the accepted tinie ; be-
hold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Cor.
vi. 2.
As the Holy Ghost saith. To-day if ye
will hear His voice, harden not your
hearts. Heb. iii, 7, 8.
The time is at hand. Rev. xxii. 10.
The Truth.
CARELESS ONE.
Ecc. xi. 9 ; Num. xxxii, 23 ; Pro. xii.
14 ; Rom. vi. 23 ; Acts iii, 19 ; Matt,
xviii. 23 ; Psa. ix. ij ; Acts xvii, 30 ;
I Thess. i. 7 ; Matt. xxv. 41.
BACKSLIDER.
Jer. ii. 2 ; Rev. ii. 4 ; Prov. xiv. 14 ;
Jer, iii. 2 ; Hosea xiv. 4 ; Rev. iii. 20 ;
I John i. 9 ; I John ii. i ; Luke xv. 18-20.
^^t Maxts oi (Snir mtj il^t ^duiitt.
CLING TO THE MIGHTY ONE.
Cling to the Mighty One, Psa. lxxxix.19.
Cling in thy grief, Heb. xii. II.
Cling to the Holy One, Heb, i. 12.
He gives relief, Ps. cxvi. 9.
Cling to the Gracious One, Ps. cxvi. 5.
Cling in thy pain, Ps. v, 4.
Cling to the 1- aithful One, i Thess.
V.
.24.
He will sustain, Ps. xxviii. 8.
Cling to the Living One, Heb. vii. 25.
Cling in thy woe, Ps. Ixxxvi. 7.
Cling to the Living One, i John iv. 16.
Through all below, Rom. viii. 38, 39.
Cling to the Pardoning One, Isa. iv. 7.
He speaketh peace, John xiv. 27.
Cling to the Healing One, Ex. xv. 26.
Anguish shall cease, Ps. cxlvii. 3.
Cling to the Bleeding One, I John i. 7.
Cling to His Side, John xx. 27,
Cling to the Risen On'", Rom. vi. 9.
In Him abide, John xv. 4.
-Cling to the Coming One, Rev. xxii. 20.
Hope shall arise, Titus li. 13.
Chng to the Reigning One, Ps. xlvii. i.
Joy lights thine eyes. Psalm xvi. 1 1 .
CHRISTIAN WORK.
THE lord's command.
" Go ye into all the world and preach
the Gospel to every creature." Mark
xvi. 15.
THE APPEAL.
**Who will go for us ?" Isaiah vi. 8.
THE PROMISE.
" There is no man that hath left house,
or brethren, or sisters, or father, or moth-
er, or wife, or children, or lands, for My
sake and the Gospel's, but he shall re-
ceive an hundredfold in this life." Mark
xi. 29.
THE ANSWERS.
'* I have bought a piece of ground — I
pray thee have me excused."
' ' I have bought five yoke of oxen — I
pray thee have me excused."
' ' I have married a wife — therefore I
cannot come." Luke xiv. 18-20.
THE MESS.A.GE.
" Behold, I come quickly, and My re-
ward is with Me, to give to every man
according as his work shall be." Rev.
xxii. 12.
122
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
CHRISTIAN WORK.
Commission. 2 Cor. v. 20.
Messsenger, Rev. xxii. 17.
Conditions first fed, John xxi. 15, 1 7.
Motive, 2 Cor. v. 14.
Field, Matt. xxv. 40.
Responsibility, Hcb. xiii, 17 ; Matt,
xxv. 28-30.
Strength, 2 Cor. iii. 5 ; Phil. iv. 13.
Our Instrument, 2 Tim. ii. 15.
Our Success, Psa, cxxvi. 6,
W. R.
WORKERS' TICKET.
Daniel xii. 3 ; Jeremiah xxiii. 28,
29. The bearer is expected to be
present with a Bible, at gospel meet-
ings, and to watch during the preach-
ing for persons interested, and at close of
meeting to seek personal conversation
with such, and to show them from God's
Word the way of salvation.
References for this purpose :
Isaiah liii. 6 ; John iii. 16 ; John v.
24 ; John vi. 37 ; Acts X. 43 ; Acts xiii.
38, 39 ; Romans iv. 6, 7, 22-25 j Rom-
ans V. I, 6-10 ; Romans viii. I ; i Cor-
inthians XV. 1-4; 2 Corinthians v. 18-21 ;
Galatians iii. 10-13 ; i Timothy i. 15 ; i
Peter ii. 24 ; I John v. 9-13 ; i John iv.
9, 10, 19, and any other portion of the
Word to which you may be led.
D. L. M.
ON SPEAKING AND WORKING.
I cannot speak, I am a child, &c. — ^Jer.
i. 6, 7.
Be not afraid but speak, — Acts xviii. 9,
10.
Be strong, work for I am with you. —
Haggai ii. 4.
Go and I will be with thy mouth. —
Exodus iv. 12.
Out of weakness became strong. — He-
brews xi. 3-34.
Your faith Ijut in the power of God. —
I Corinthians ii. 5.
It is not ye that speak. — Matthew x.20.
Christ speaking in me. — 2 Cor. xiii. 3.
Thou shalt talk, &c. — Deut. vi. 7-
We are ambassadors for Christ. -2 Cor-
inthians v. 20.
Workers together with Him. — 2 Cor-
inthians VI. I.
Causeb us to triumph. — 2 Cor. ii. 14.
If thou shalt confess, &c. — Romans x.9.
Whosoever therefore, &c. — Matthew x.
32, 33 ; Mark viii. 38.
CHRISTIAN WORK.
Matt. xiii. 38 ; Gal. vi. 10 ; John iv.
35 ; Matt. ix. 37 ; 2 Cor. vi. i ; i Cor. i.
9 ; Matt. XX. 6-7 ; Mark vi. 41 ; xiii. 34 ^
Matt. xxv. 14 ; Eccl, ix. 10 ; John ix. 4,
I Cor. XV. 58 ; Acts x. 38 ; Luke vi. 4.0 ;
John xvii. 4 ; Acts ix. 6 ; Isa. vi. 8 ;
Psalms cxxvi. 6 ; John iv. 36 ; Dan. xii.
3 ; James v. 20 : 2 Cor. ix. 8.
H. B. C.
BIBLE STUDIES FROM A SCRIP-
TURE TEXT BOOK ON GOS-
PEL WORK. *
I, THE WORK.
The work of the Christian in reaching;
and saving men, is, under the Holy Spirit,,
to make known to them the finished work
that God has wrought in Christ for their
salvation. The Scripture truth to be
taught will be found in full in a compan-
ion pamphlet. The following outline^
however, is given to show the general
character of the work to be done.
The worker is to declare (i Cor. ii, i.)
7 he testimony of God. — That all the
world is guilty before God . Rom. iii, 19.
That God is not willing that any should
perish. 2 Pet. iii, 9.
That God so loved the world, that he
gave his only-begottai Son, that whoso-
ever believeth in Him should not perish^
but have everlasting life. John iii, 16.
That Christ has borne our sins in his-
own body on the tree. I Pet. ii, 24.
That it is through him the forgiveness
of sins is preached. Acts xiii, 38.
That God now commands all meik
everywhere to repent. Acts xvii, 30.
That the benefits of Christ's death are re-
ceived through repentance toward God
and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ-
Acts XX, 21.
That, thus believing in Christ, the sinner
is at once saved. Acts xvi, 31. John v,.
24.
* Gospel Work published by American
Tract Society, i r
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
123
II. THE WORKER.
TTie beliei)er is the worker. — God's work
in Christ comes first. The believer's
work is in and from Him.
Separated before sent. John xvii, 16,
18.
Communion before testimony. John
XV, 27. Acts iv, 13, 20. I John i, 1-3.
Loving Christ before teaching others.
John xxi, 15-17.
Preaching is being a witness. Acts i, 8,
21, 22. Acts v, 32.
Saul believed, and "straightway he
preached Christ". Acts ix, 20 ; John i,
41, 45 ; iv, 28, 29.
Ministry is received from the Lord
Jesus. Acts XX, 24.
The method of the law — doing that
one may live — fails. Zeal without know-
ledge sets aside God's work in Christ.
Rom. X, 1-5.
The method of the gospel — life that
one may do — puts Christ's work first,
and is God's order. Rom. x, 6-17.
The Word of God. Believing witn the
heart. Confession with the mouth. 6-10
Hearing. Calling upon his name.* Sent
to preach. 11-17.
Gifts for service flow from bein^ mem-
bers in the body of Christ. Rom. xii, 3-8.
Eph. iv, 7, II, 12.
God pours from filled vessels. Rom. xv,
29; 2 Cor. iv. 7.
Receiving and knowing before speaking
and teaching. I Cor. ii, 9-13.
God's co-workers. I Cor. iii, 5-9. 2 Cor,
vi, I. .
Jesus Christ, the foundation, i Cor. iii,
lO-II.
Our sufficiency is of God. 2 Cor. ii, 14- 17 ;
iii, 5-6.
Enlightened before giving light. 2 Cor.
4-6.
Believing and knowing, therefore
speaking. 2 Cor. iv. 13-14.
Knowing our acceptance, therefore
laboring tQ be acceptable. 2 Cor. v. i, 5,
6, 9 (Eph. i, 6-7.) The Greek of verse
9 requires the rendering "acceptable" in-
■^tead of "accepted".
Knowing the fear of the Lord, there*
fore persuading men, 2 Cor, v. 10, 11.
Love constraining, 2 Cor. v. 13-15.
Reconciled, therefore reconciling, 2
Cor. V. 18-20,
It pleased God to reveal his Son in
me, that I might preach Him, Gal. i.
15, 16,
Faith works by love, Gal. v. 6 ; I
Thess. i. 3.
A dead man's works are dead, Eph . ii
1-3 ; Rom. vii. 5 ; viii. 5-8 ; Heb, vi. I.
Dead works need to be repented of, an(f
the doer of them, Heb. ix. 14, to be pur
ged by the blood of Christ.
God's work in Christ, quickening, sav
ing, raising, seating in the heavenlies ; o»
grace giving salvation apart from works,
(Rom. iv. 4-8,) comes first, i John iv
9, 10 ; Eph. ii. 4-9,
The good works, unto which the be-
liever is created, (2 Cor. v. 17 ; Gal. vi.
15,) then follow. Rom. vii. 6 ; viii. 3,4;.
I Thess. i. 19; ii. 13; Titus ii. 11-14;
iii, 8 ; Heb. x. 19, 25 ; i John iv. 19, 20;
V. 5. What God requires of the unbe-
liever is, to believe. John vi. 28, 29; i
John iii. 23 ; Eph. ii. 10.
Sons of God shine as lights, holding
forth the Word of Life, i Peter ii. 9-12 ;.
Phil. ii. 15, 16,
My fellow laborers, whose names
are in the Book of Life. Phil. iv. 3.
Christ in the believer, as the hope of
glory, is a power for service, 2 Thess. i.
II, 12 ; Col, i. 25-29.
' ' Gospel work, " so called, which does,
not flow from love, out of a cleansed
heart, a good conscience, and faith un-
feigned, becomes vain jangling, and a.
teaching of the law, not according to the
glorious gospel of the blessed God, i Tim.
i. 5-1 1. The Greek word rendered
"pure" in this passage, occurs Matt. v.
8; "clean," John xiii. 10 ; ' xv. 3;
"purge," Heb. i. 3 ; ix, 14.; "cleanseth,'"
I John i. 7, 9, and elsewhere.
We labour because we trust, i Tim. iv-
TO.
■124-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READIxNTGS.
Unfeigned faith stirs up the gift of God
in us, unto fearless testimony, 2 Tim. i.
5-8.
The saved man is the called man,
ready to suffer in bearing witness, because
Tie knows, 2 Tim. i. 9-12,
The testimony is committed to be-
lievers. 2 Tim. ii. 2.
The gospel is committed, by the com-
■mandment of our Saviour, to one who
acknowledges the truth of God, who
cannot lie. Titus i. 1-3.
Examples of faith working. Heb. xi.
Jesus the perfect example. Heb. xii.1-3.
Works spring from faith, not from
profession. James ii. 14-26.
Unto the wicked God saith, What
hast thou to do, to declare my statutes,
•or that thou shouldest take my covenant
in thy mouth ? Psalm 1. 16, 17.
Even a wolf will not preach except in
-sheep's clothing. Matt. vii. 15.
The unbelieving gospel worker, even
if good should result, is a worker of
iniquity. Matt. vii. 21-23.
Every Believer. — In all these pass-
-ages. believers, without distinction, are
workers ; and the inspiration of the
Avork is the faith that is common to all.
Hence every believer is expected to
work. For further evidence and illus-
tration consult.
To every man talents according to
his several ability, but every man to
trade. Matt. xxv. 15.
Each servant has a pound. Every
believer has the gospel. Luke xix. 11-26.
All were filled with the Holy Spirit,
and all spake. Acts iv. 31 : Acts ii. 1-4.
Sons and daughters, young men and
old men, servants and hand-maidens, all
are lO prophesy. Acts ii. 17, 18.
The church was scattered, but wher-
ever there was a believer, there was a
preacher of the Word. Acts xi. 19-21 ;
Acts viii. 4.
A husband and wife expound to a
preacher, eloquent and mighty in the
Scriptures, (of the law,) the way of God
more perfectly. Acts xviii. 26.
j A pastor's helpers in Christ have theif
names recorded by the Holy Spirit.
Rom. xvi. 1-15.
Silencing a gospel preacher makes
many brethren preachers. Phil. i. 12-14.
Women are not excepted from evan-
gelistic work. Phil. iv. 3; Rom. xvi. i,
2, 3, 12.
An ignorant and unlearned man may
speak what he has seen and heard with
Jesus. Acts iv, 13, 20; Luke ix. 12-17;-
Acts iii. 6.
One less than the least of all saints
may preach the unsearchable riches of
Christ. Eph. iii. 8.
The chief of sinners may tell that
faithful saying, which is worthy of all
acceptation, i Tim. i. 15.
When the believer will not be expected
to do gospel work. Heb. viii. 11.
The Commission. — That God has
commissioned every believer to gospel
work, is evident from the Scripture
already adduced. For further teaching,
examine the following references, and
may the Holy Spirit use them to impress
upon every Christicm that he is personally
called qf God to the work.
Whosoever follows Jesus must become
a fisher of men. Matt. iv. 18-22.
, What is light for unless to shine ? Cf.
' Luke viii. 16. Matt. v. 14-16.
Seeing the , need and praying for
workers, prepares one to answer. Lord,
send me. Matt. ix. 37, 38 (connected
with ch. 10).
As ye have received Chrfst Jesus,
preach Him. Matt. x. 5-8; i Peter iv,
10, II.
What we have heard in our hearts we
must tell publicly. Matt, x. 27.
Does the man possess Christ who
never speaks of Him ? Matt. x. 32, 33 ■
Cf. Mark viii. 38.
The calling of the church in the
world, like that of her Lord, is not to
be ministered unto, but to minister.
Matt. XX, 25-28.
Son, go work to-day in my vineyard.
Matt. xxi. 28.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
125
Go ye into the highways, and as many
as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
Matt. xxii. i-io.
Servants are reckoned with according
to faithfulness in the gospel committed
to their trust. Matt. xxv. 19,
A saved man is not taken to be with
Jesus, but is sent into the world with a
message. Luke viii. 38, 39; Psa. Ixvi. 16.
The most sacred duties of affection
are no excuse from gospel work. Luke
ix, 59, 60.
The departing Lord says to every
servant, " Occupy till 1 come." Luke
xix, 13.
On his return, he will ask how much
every man has gained by trading.
Luke xix. 15.
What would Jesus say to disciples
who wantisd to hold their peace ? Luke
xix. 37-40.
May the Lord now look (61) upon
any Christian who, getting separated
from Christ, (54) and failing to stand
up for him, (55) comes at length to deny
him. (57-60.) Luke xxii. 54-62.
The believer is a debtor to the un-
believer. He owes him the gospel.
Rom. i. 13-15.
Believer, a necessity is laid upon thee ;
a dispensation is committed to thee ; to
fail is to bring loss upon thyself, i Cor.
ix. 16, 17.
The church, whose home is with her
Lord, is left on earth to testify to all
men, everywhere, the gospel of his grace.
This is our one work on earth. How
sacred and imperative to every Christian
these last words of our departing Lord.
Matt, xxviii, 18-20; Mark xvi. 15; Luke
xxiv. 46-51 ; John xv. 13-16, 26, 27 ;
John xvii. 18 ; Acts i. 7-1 1.
III.— THE PREPARATION.
General Qualifications. — The
spiritual preparation required for gospel
v/ork, whether by apostles, evangelists,
pastors, and-other church officers, or by
the individual Christian, (2 Cor. vi. 1-13,)
does not differ in character, only in
I degree. Therefore study minutely. Matt.
] X , I Timothy ; Titus ; Luke x ; z
i Timothy ; i Peter v. i-ii.
But above all, let each one continually "
study the gospel work of the Lord Jesus,
our great example. To learn of Him is-
to be wise in winning souls.
Special Qualifications. — All that
goes to make up a fully developed Chris-
tian character, whether in knowledge,
experience, or communion, will unques-
tionably add power to the gospel worker.
The following particulars of inner equip-
ment are therefore noted, not as being
complete, but as being important, both
to give direction to our prayers, and to
open our hearts to the Spirit of God,
by whom they are wrought.
Assurance. — It must be remembered
in this, and in all these special qualifica-
tions, that only those references will in
general be given, which, directly or
indirectly, show the relation of the
qualification to success in Christian;
work. For example, to get the full
teaching on assurance, one must search
the New Testament with a Concordance;
under the words assurance, sure, hath,
now, know, etc. , and study such chapters-
as Eph. i ; Col, i ; Heb. x ; i John v. 9-
13. But in connection with our present
study upon Gospel Work, it is enough
to notice that, in all the passages referred
to under the headings, the believer is the
worker, and every believer is expected
to work, the faith spoken of is evidently
an assured faith, and to give here only
such references as will show assurance •
to be important to the worker's highest
success.
Luke X. 20; John iii. 11; see also iv.
42; Acts xxii. 14, 15; I Cor. i. 3-7; i
Cor. ii. 12, 13; 2 Cor. iv. 13, 14; 2 Cor.
V. I, with 9, 10, II ; 2 Tim. i. 11, 12 ; i
John iv. 13, 14.
Love. — i Cor. xiii. ; i Cor. xiv. i ; 1
Thess. iii. 12 ; i John iv. 7-16.
Hunger for the Salvation op
Souls. — ^John iii. 16; Matt, xxiii. 37;
£26
NOTES f'OR BIBLE READINGS.
Luke xix. 41, 42; Acts xx. 18-21, 26, 27 ;
Rom. i. 11-15; Rom. ix. 1-3; Rom. x. i;
Z Cor, xii. 14, 15, see marginal reading;
Phil. i. 8 ; I Thess. ii. 7, 8.
A Longing to reach the Neg-
lected.— Mark vi. 34; Luke v. 31, 32;
Luke XV. 7; Luke xix. 10; Rom. xv. 20,
21; James ii. 1-9,
Prayerfulness. — Mark ix. 29; Luke
V. 15-17; Luke xi. 5-13; John xii. 21,22;
Acts i. 4, 14 ; Acts iv. 24-31 ; Acts vi. 4 ;
1 Thess. V. 17; Rom. xv. 30; Col. iv.
12, 13 ; Eph. vi, 18-20.
Fulness of faith and of the Holy
Spirit.— Luke v. 18-20 ; Acts xiii, 9,
Acts i, 4, 5, 8 ; Rom. xv, 29 ; Acts ii, 4 J
Eph. V, 18 ; Acts iv, 8, 31 ; i Thess. i,
5 ; Acts vi, 5, 8, 10 ; 2 Thess i, 11, 12 ;
Acts vii, 55 ; i John ii, 20, 27, 28 ; Acts
ix, 17.
Obedience to the Spirit, — Luke v,
5-7 ; 2 Cor. iv, 2 ; John xxi, 3t6 ; i Thess.
ii, 3-6; Acts iv, 18-20; I Thess. v, 19;
Acts V, 28-29 ; John ii, 5 ; Acts viii, 29,
30 ; John vii, 3-10, 17, 18 ; Acts xiii, 2-4 ;
Exod. xiii, 21, 22; Acts xvl^ 6-io ;
Num. ix, 15-23 ; Rom. viii, 14.
Confidence in the message. — Rom.
a, 16, 17 ; 2 Cor. i, 18-22 ; i Cor. i, 17-
28 ; I Pet. iv, II ; I Cor ii, 1-5.
Boldness. — Acts iv, 13, 29, 31 ; Eph.
vi. 10-20 ; Acts vii. 51-60 ; i Thess. ii. 2 ;
i Cor. xvi, 9-14.
Readiness to suffer and to
WAIT.— Matt. V, II, 12 ; Acts v, 41 ; 2
Cor. iv, I ; Phil. 1, 29 ; Phil, ii, 17 ; Phil.
iv, 11-13; Col. i, 24; 2 Thess. iii, 13;
James v. 7, 8, 10 , i Pet. ii. 19-25 ; i
Pet. iv. 12-19.
Joy in the Lord, — Neh. viii. 10;
2 Cor. vii. 4 ; Phil. iii. 3 ; Phil. iv. 4-
7 ; I Thess. V. 16 ; Psa. Ii. 12, 13.
Humility. — Matt. xx. 25-28 ; Matt,
xxiii. 5-12 ; Acts xx. 19 ; Rom. xii. 3-10 ;
Phil. i. 15-18 ; Phil. ii. 5-8 ; Jude ix.
Oneness of Heart and Soul with
the Children of God. — Acts iv. 32,
33 ; Rom. xvi. 17, 18 ; Phil. ii. 1-4.
Discrimination. — Matt. vii. 6; Matt.
xii. 20 ; I Cor. ix. 19-22 ; I Cor. x. 23,
32, 33 ; I Cor. xiv,6-ii ; 23-25 ; Phil. i.
10, marg. ; 2 Tim. ii. 15 ; Jude 20-23 ;
Matt. V. 43-47.
Tenderness. — Ps. cxxvi, 5, 6 ; 2 Cor.
ii. 4 ; Phil. iii. 18 ; Luke xiii. 34, 35 ;
Luke xix, 41, 42 ; Acts xx. 19, 31 ; Matt,
xii. 20.
Blamelessness. — Matt. vii. 3-5 ; Rom.
ii. 17-24; Rom. XV, 14; Rom. xvi. 19;
Eph. V. 11-18; Phil, ii. 15; Phil. iii. 17;
Col. i. 9-1 1 ; I. Thess. ii. 10 ; James iii.
10-13 ; I Pet. ii. II, 12, 15.
Consecration and devotedness. —
Luke V. 10, 11; John xxi. 18-22; Acts
XX. 18-27; Rom. xii. i, 2 ; i Cor. ii. 2;
I Cor. ix. 23-27 ; 2 Cor. v. 13-15 ; Phil,
i. 19-21 ; Phil. ii. 20, 21, (with Matt. vi.
24,); Col i. 28, 29; Heb. xi. 24-27;
Heb. xiii. 12-15 \ Exod. xxix. i, 4-9, 19-
22, 35 ; Lev. xiv. 1-20; Isa. Iii. 11 ; 2
Tim. ii. 1-5, 19-22.
The woirker cannot have power except
as he is spiritually a Nazarite. 2 Cor.
vi. 14; vii. I ; Acts xx. 18-24 ; Num. vi. i-
27 ; Judges xiii. 4, 5 ; Judges xvi. 17, 21.
God's sufficiency. — The call of God
to work, and the qualifications to which
he calls his workers, makes one conscious
of unfitness. But this God meets by the
pledge of his sufficiency, which inspires
and girds to service.
Moses, Exodus iii, iv. Gideon, Judges
vi. 15, 16. Isaiah vi. 5, 8. Jeremiah
i, 6-9. Paul, I Cor. xv. 9, 10 ; 2 Cor.
ii. 14-17 ; 2 Cor. iii. 5, 6 ; 2 Cor. iv, 7 ; 2
Cor. xii. 9, 10. Every Christian, Phil,
iv. 13, 19 ; 2 Cor. ix. 8.
IV.— THE POWER.
The worker can do nothing of himself.
His power is entirely from the Spirit of
God, given in answer to prayer, and in
the use of God's Word.
(i.) Power by the Spirit. — The
general principle is stated Zech. iv. 6,
" Not by might, nor by power, but by
my Spirit, saith the Lord." Compare for
illustration the vision in Ezek. xxxviL
See also John i. 12, 13.
The service of saints in past dispensa*
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
127
tions was, therefore, only by the power
of the Spirit upon them. Yet the in-
dwelling fulness of His power is mani-
fested in this, the dispensation of the
Spirit, '(John vii. 37, 38, and xiv. 16, 23,)
and the service is that not of servants
but of full-grown sons. Gal. iv. 1-7.
EXAMPLES FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT.
Bezaleel. Exodus xxxi. 3.
Moses and the seventy elders. Num.
xi. 24—30.
Joshua. Deut. xxxiv. 9.
Othniel. Judges iii. 9, 10.
Gideon. Judges vi. 34.
Jephthah. Judges xi. 29.
Samson. Judges xiv. 6, 19 ; Judges
XV. 14 ; Judges xvi. 28.
David. I Sam. xvi. 13 ; Psa. li. 12, 13.
Ehjah and Elisha. 2 Kings ii. q, 15.
Amasai. i Chron. xii. 18.
Azariah. 2 Chron. xv. i.
Prophecies of Christ. Isa. xi. 2, 3 ;
Isa. xlii. I ; Isa. Ixi. 1-3.
Ezekiel. Ezek. ii. 2 ; Ezek. iii. 12-14.
Micah. Micah iii. 8.
TEACHING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit. Matt,
iii. II, cf. 16.
The Spirit of your Father. Matt. x. 20.
Endued with power. Luke xxiv. 49.
The Spirit gives new birth. John iii. 5.
The Spirit quickeneth. John vi. 63.
Rivers of living water flow from the
indwelling Spirit. John vii. 38, 39.
The Spirit, in the believer, is his
teacher and reminder. John xiv. 17,26.
The Spirit bears witness. John xv.
26; I John V. 6.
The Spirit convinces the world. John
xvi. 7-1 1.
The Spirit is to the believer a guide
into all truth. John xvi. 13.
The work was not of man. Acts iii. 1 2.
The Spirit gave great power. Acts
iv. 31, 33-
The Spirit is resisted and despised,
^Heb. X. 29,) when the gospel is rejected.
Acts vii. 51.
The power of the Holy Spirit. ^ Rom.
Yv. 13, 14.
Faith stands in the power of God, the
dem onstration of the Spirit . i Cor. ii . 20.
The kingdom of God is not in word,
but in power, i Cor. iv. 20.
Faith in Jesus as Lord is by the
Spirit. I Cor. xii. 3.
All gifts are worked by the Spirit,
who distributes them, i Cor. xii. 4-1 1.
To be strengthened with might, is by
the Spirit. Eph. iii. 16,
The Spirit uses the sword. Eph. vi. 1 7.
The Spirit of power. 2 Tim. i. 7.
We are to keep our gifts for service,
by the Spirit. 2 Tim. i. 6, 14.
EXAMPLES FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT.
Jesus. Matt. iii. 16 ; Matt. xii. 28 ;
Luke ii. 25; Luke iv. 14, 18; Acts i. 2;
Acts X. 38,
John the Baptist. Luke i. 1$.
Mary. Luke i. 35.
Elizabeth. Luke i. 41.
Zacharias. Luke i. 67.
Paul. Rom. xv. 19 ; i Cor. ii. 4, 12, 13.
Paul and ApoUos. i Cor. iii. 5, 6,
Paul. 2 Cor. iii. 3-6.
Paul and Timothy. 2 Cor. vi. 6. 7.
Paul. Col. i. 29.
Among theThessalonians. i Thess.i.5.
For passages omitted above see Ful-
ness of Faith and of the Holy Spirit.
(2.) Power by the Word. — The word
1 of God is the instrument, as the Spirit
of God is the agent, in saving souls-
The worker, therefore, needs to know
God's description of His Word, and to
realize that it is His instrument in all
teaching, and that God will accordingly
use the worker and clothe him with
power in proportion as he brings His
Word to bear directly on men's souls.
GOD'S DESCRIPTION OF HIS
WORD.
Given by Inspiration. — 2 Tim. iii.
16 ; Acts i. 16 ; Acts iv. 24, 25 ; Acts xxviii.
25; I Cor. ii. 4, 5, 9-13; Heb. i. 2; cf.
xii. 25; Heb. ii. 1-4; Heb. iii. 7; Heb.
ix. 7, 8; Heb. x. 15; 2 Peter i. 21.
The Oracles of God. — Acts vii. 38.
Rom. iii. 2; Heb. v. 12; i Peter iv. 11.
The Word of God. — Prov. xxx. 5,
6; Isaiah xl. 8; Mark vii. 13; Luke iv.
4; Luke xi. 28; Acts iv. 31; Acts vi. 7;
Acts xi. I ; Acts xii. 24 ; cf. xix. 20 ; Acts
xiii. 44; 2 Peter iii. 2-10.
128
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
The Word of the Lord.— Jer. vli:.
9; Acts viii. 25; Acts xiii. 46-49; Acts
svi. 32; I Thess. i. 8 ; aThess. iii. i.
The Word of Truth.— 2 Cor. vi. 7 ;
Eph. i. 13 ; Col. i. 5 ; 2 Tim. ii. 15 ; James
i. 18.
The Words of Life.— John vi. 63,
68 ; Acts V. 20 ; Phil. 2. 16.
The Word of His Grace. Acts xx.32.
The Word of Faith. Rom. x. 8.
The Word of Reconciliation. 2 Cor.
V. 19.
The Word of Christ. Col. iii. 16.
Settled in Heaven. Psalms cxix. 89.
Not yea and nay. 2 Cor. i. 19, 20. j
A rock foundation. Matt. vii. 24.
Very pure. Psalm cxix. 140.
The seed sown. Luke vifi.. 11.
The incorruptible seed, i Peter i. 23.
It testifies of Christ. Luke ;_xxiv. 27,
44 ; John V. 39 ; Acts x. 43.
It must be met in the Day of Judg-
ment. John xii. 48 ; Rom. ii. 16.
It liveth and abideth for ever. " And
this is the Word which by the gospel is
preached." i Peter i. 23, 25,
Knowledge of the Word. — To be
. in heart thoroughly acquainted with
God's Word, is to be thoroughly furnish-
ed unto Gospel Work. 2 Tim. iii. 17.
God's Word needs no supplement.
Deut. iv. 2 ; Deut. xii. 32; Prov. xxx, 5, 6.
Understanding God's precepts pre-
pares one to speak. Psalm cxix. 27.
God's testimonies give more under-
standing than any human teaching. Psa.
cxix. 97-100.
The Christian needs his lamp in gos-
pel work. Psalm cxix, 105.
One full of God's word is not afraid,
anywhere, to speak His testimonies. Psa.
cxix. 46 ; Psa. cxix. 171, 172,
Out of the mouth of the Lord cometh
wisdom and knowledge. Prov. ii. 1-6.
God's Word in the heart is a burning
fire. Jer. xx. 9,
The difference God puts between
those who speak out of their own*hearts,
and thos(3 who speak out of his Word.
Jer. xxiii. 16--4G,
To teach "views" of truth, instead o£
Gods words, is irreverent to Christ.
Mark vii. 9-13.
God's Word is written " that thou
mightest know the certainty of those
things wherein thou hast been instruct-
ed." Luke i. 3, 4.
Knowledge oi the truth, which is
essential to gospel work, is dependent
on continuance in the Word. Cf. Exod.
xvi. i2~2i, and Deut. viii. 3 ; John viii.
31-32.
God's witnesses can speak only what
they hear from Him, John xv. 4-8 ; John
viii. 26, 28 ; John xii. 50 ; John xiv. 10,
24 ; John xvi. 13, 14.
To be a good servant of Jesus Christy
one must be nourished in the words of
faith and good doctrine, i Tim. iv. 6.
He who would be wise to win souls
(Prov. xi. 30) must attend to reading, to
exhortation, to doctrine, and meditate
upon these things, i Tim. iv. i2-i6-
Those who teach anything else than
the health-giving words of our Lord J csus
Christ, are utterly condemned, i Tim. vi,
3-5-
" Hold fast the form of sound words,**
Cf. 2 Thess. ii. 15 ; 2 Tim. i. 13.
By disuse of the Word, one becomes
unskilful in it, remains a babe, and is un-
fit to teach others, Heb. v. 11-14,
From the Word, the worker can give a
reason for the hope that is in him, i Pet
iii. 15-
He is strong, in whom the Word of
God abideth, John xv. 7 ; i John ii. 14.
How to use the Word. — Read it
distinctly, and give the sense, that all
may understand, Neh. viii. 8.
Appeal to it, as the test of all teaching,
Isa. viii. 20.
Lead the inquirer to search out the
passages and read them, that he may
know the truth for himself. Isa. xxxiv.
16; John V. ^_: Acts xvii. 11. "He
that halh my word, let him speak my
word faithfully," Jer, xxiii, 28.
Press God's words as aulhoratative.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
129
Matt. vii. 29 ; I Thess. ii. 13 ; Rom. iii.
Teach the way of God in truth, not re-
garding the person of men, Mark xii. 14.
With boldness. Acts iv. 29.
With simplicity, as the testimony of
God, not with enticing words of man's
wisdom, I Cor. i. 17 ; i Cor. ii. i, 4.
In godly sincerity and positiveness, 2
Cor. i. 12, 18-20.
As of God, in the sight of God, 2 Cor.
n. l^,
Using great plainness of speech, 2 Cor.
iii. 12.
Not handling the Word of God by "ac-
commodation," but manifesting tiic truth.
2 Cor. iv. 2.
To give Christ himself, not human phil-
osophy or tradition about him. Col. ii,
3, 4, 8. Cf. Titus i. 14.
Not striving about words to no profit.
2 Tim. ii. 14, 23, 2^, Cf. Titus iii, 9.
Rightly dividing the word of truth. 2
Tim. ii. 15. Luke xii. 42, 43.
In meekness, that God may give re-
pentance, to the acknowledging of the
truth. 2 Tim. ii. 25.
With all long-suffering. 2 Tim. iv. 2.
Our Saviour's use of the word in
His ministry. — It was his strength when
tempted to swerve from his appointed
path of service. Matt. iv. 4, 7, 10. Psa.
xvii. 4.
He referred to it, as showing that the
gospel was for sinners. Matt. ix. 13.
He appealed to it against tradition.
Matt. xii. 3, 5, 7. Cf. Matt, xv, 3-9. John
vii. 19-24.
By it he rebuked an itching for signs
and a carelessness of truth. Matt. xii. 39-
42.
By it he interpreted human nature.
Matt. xiii. 14, 15.
From it he answered a question about
divorce. Matt. xix. 4.6.
He used it as a looking-glass, to show
a man his own heart. Matt. xix. 17-22.
It was His authority when he rebuked
bargaining in the house of God. Matt,
xxi. 13.
He quoted it in defence of children who
confessed him. Matt. xxi. 16.
9
From it he showed the judgment which
would follow the rejection of his testi-
mony. Matt, xxi, 42.
From the use of a tense in the Old Tes-
tament, he taught the resurrection. Matt,
xxii. 29-32.
He used its types, as well as its state-
ments of truth. Matt. xxiv. 37-39. Luke
xvii. 29, 30 ; John iii. 14 ; John vi. 32, 51.
He used it, to show men their ignorance
of the Old Testament, when they did
not see Him in it, Mark xii. 35-37;
Luke xxiv. 25-27; Luke xxiv. 44-46;
John V. 39, 46.
He rightly divided. Luke iv. 17-20;
Isaiah Ixi. 2.
He noted the fulfilment of Scripture.
John XV. 25; John xvii. 12.
So also did Matthew and John. Matt,
i. 22; Matt. ii. 15, 17, 23; Matt. viii. 17;
John xii. 38 ; John xix. 24, 36, 37.
So also did Peter. Acts ii. 16, 25.
Stephen. Acts vii.
Philip. Acts viii. 35.
Paul. Acts xiii. 16-47.
James. Acts xv. 13-18.
Apollos. Acts xviii. 28.
The Epistles and the Revelation are
full of the Old Testament ; Hebrews is
little more than an exposition of Leviticus;
and the passages of the Old Testament
quoted or alluded to in the New,
number 825.
The Direct Testimony to the
Power of the Word. — It converts the
soul. Psaim xix, 7-1 1; Jer. xxiii. 22.
It makes clean. Psalm cxix. 9; Joha
xiii. 8-10; John xv. 3; Eph. v. 26.
It quickens. Psalm cxix. 50, 93.
It enlightens and convinces of sin.
Psalm cxix. 130; Prov, vi. 20-23 ; Hosea
vi. 4-6; John iii. 19-21; Eph. v. 11-14.
It gives life. Isaiah Iv. 2, 3 ; Matt.iv.4;
John V. 24; John vi. 63, 68; John xx, 31.
It accomplishes God's purpose. Isaiah
Iv. II.
It is like a fire and a hammer, jer.
xxiii. 29,
It is stronger than if one rose from
the dead. Luke xvi. 29-31.
It saves. the soul. Acts xi. 14; Acts
130
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
xiii. 26; Rom. i. 16; I Tim. iv. 16; 2
Tim. iii. 15; James i. 21.
It is able to build up. Acts xx. 32;
Rom. XV. 4; I Cor. x. 11 ; i Peter ii. 2.
It produces conviction of sm. Rom.
iii. 20; Rom. vii. 9- 13; James ii. 9.
It produces faith. Rom. x. 17.
Itproducesjoy and peace. Rom. xv. 13.
It is the power of God. i Cor. i. 17-25;
1 Cor. ii. 4, 5.
It is a savor of death unto death, or of
life unto life. 2 Cor. ii. 16, 17.
It appeals to every man's conscience.
2 Cor. iv. 2.
It pulls down strongholds. 2 Cor. x.
4, 5-
Is a schoolmaster unto Christ. Gal.
iii. 19-24.
It is the sword of the Spirit. Eph. vi.
17; Heb. iv. 12.
Stops the mouths of gainsayers. Titus
i., 9-11.
It gives the new birth. James i. 18;
I Peter i. 23. '
It gives knowledge of the possession of
eternal life, i John v. 9-13.
v.— THE INCENTIVES.
The great incentives to Gospel Work
are the facts that man is lost and that
in Christ only is salvation. (See Text-
Book of Gospel Truth.) These two
underlie and enter into all other
incentives.
The Salvation of men. — God would
not have them perish. John iii. 16;
Ezek. xviii. 32; Ezek. xxxiii. 11.
How shall they hear vwthout a
preacher? Rom. x. 12-17.
Paul could not rest while men were
perishing, i Cor. ix. 19-22.
God would have all men saved, i
Tim. ii. 4 ; 2 Peter iii. 9.
Christ's Constraining Love. 2 Cor.
v. 14, 15. — Abiding in Christ's love, and
obeying his commands, are inseparable.
John XV. 9- 14.
As we have received mercy, we faint
not. 2 Cor. iv. i.
Christ's love lives in our love for the
lost. Gal. ii. 20.
We give ourselves as he halh given
himself. Eph. v. 2; i John iii. 16.
We love, because he first loved us. i
John iv. 7-16, 19.
the requirement to be faithful. —
He who is unfaithful is guilty of the blood
of souls. Acts XX. 26, 27.
Faithfulness is required in stewards, i
Cor. iv. I -5.
The ministry is to be fulfilled. Col. iv.
17-
Every man is to minister as he has re-
ceived the gift. I Pet. iv. lo.
Pleasing the Lord. — Making the
Father glad. Luke xv. 7, 10, 22-24.
Being wrought for resurrection, we la-
bour to be acceptable. 2 Cor. v. 5-9.
Christ's servant seeks to please him,
not men. Rom. xv. 1-3; i Cor. x. 33;
Gal. i. 10; I Thess. ii. 4.
We are, to walk worthy of the Lord unto
all pleasing. Col. i. 10.
A soldier must please him who hath
chosen him. 2 Tim. ii. 4. ^
A workman must be approved. 2 Tim.
ii. 15.
The honour of being associated
with Christ. — Christ and his messen-
gers are one. John xiii. 20.
As friends, they know his plans. John
XV. 15.
They are treated as he was. Matt. x.
25; John XV. 20.
They are sent as he was. John xvii. 18,
21.
He and the Spirit work in them. Rom.
XV. 17-19; I Cor. ii. 4-13.
They are ambassadors for him. 2 Cor.
V. 20.
They are encouraged by the joy set be-
fore them, even as he was. Heb. xii. 2-4.
The pressing work and little
TIME. — The harvest is plenteous, and the
labourers are few. Matt. ix. 37.
All nations are to be taught. Matt,
xxviii. 19,
The gospel is to be preached to every
creature. Mark xvi, 15.
The fields are white to harvest. John
iv. 35-38.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
131
The night ccmeth, when no man Can
work, John :x. 4 ; John xi. g, 10,
It is high time t6 awake out of sleep,
Rom. xiii. 11-14 ; i Peter iv. 7.
The time is short, i Cor, vii. 29-31.
The Success Promised. — Nothing is
impossible, even to little faith. Matt.
xvii. 20, 21 ; Matt. xxi. 21, 22.
From henceforth thou shalt catch
men. Luke v. 6-10 ; John xxi. 3-1 1.
Christ in the believer's work is greater
than in his own, John xiv. 12., 13.
The weakness of God is stronger than
men, i Cor. i. 17-28.
Libor is not m vain in the Lord, i
Cor. i. 15-58.
We shall reap if we faint not. Gal.
vi. 9.
Even adversities shall further the
gospel, Phil. i. 12.
We may save those that hear us. i
Tim. iv. 16.
He shall doubtless come again with
rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
Fsalm cxxvi. 6.
The Certain and Proportionate
Reward. — The 'least service shall in no
wise lose its reward. Matt. x. 40-42;
Matt. xvi. 27.
It shall be to every man, according as
his work shall be. i Cor. iii. 8-14; Rev.
xxii. 12.
Every one serving shall have praise of
God. I Cor. iv. 5.
Star dififers from star in glory, i Cor.
XV. 41.
Our works follow us. Rev. xiv. 13.
Various Warnings. — A servant who
does not serve is classed with hypocrites.
Matt. xxiv. 48-51; Matt. xxv. 24-30.
And with unbelievers. Luke xii. 46.
The greater the knowledge, the greater
the responsibility. Luke xii. 47, 48.
The elder son is rebuked. Luke xv.
25-32.
Judging another and doing the same
things, is mexcusable. Rom. ii. I-16.
The name of God is blasphemed
through those who, teaching others, do
not teach themselves. Rom. ii. 17-24.
Destroy not him for whom Christ died
Rom. xiv. 10-23.
An open door — let no man take ihy
crown. Rev. iii. 8-11 ; 2 John viii.
Present Blessings in Service. —
God's care and supply deliver from fear
of want. Matt. vi. 25-34.
God's care and protection deliver from
fear of man. Matt. x. 25-31.
Wisdom is given by the Spirit in time
of need- Matt. x. 18-20 ; James i. C.
The companionship of Jesus. Matt.
xxviii. 20 ; Mack xvi. 20.
Loss for the gospel s s'.ike i» :. hundred
fold rewarded. Mark x. 29, 30.
We are enriched in utterance, i Cor.
i- 5-
We have deliverance in trouble. 2 Cor.
i. 7-11 ; 1 Tim. iv. 17, 18.
Future Blessings on Account of
Service. — Shininginheaven, Dan. xii. 3.
Greatness in heaven. Matt. v. 19.
Treasures in heaven. Matt, vi, 19, 20.
Confessed in heaven. Matt. x. 32.
Reward at his coming. Matt. xvi. 27.
Ruling with Christ. Matt. xxiv. 45-
47 ; Matt. xxv. 21, 23 ; 2 Tim. i. it, 12.
Honor from the Father. John xii. 26.
An incorruptible crown, i Cor. i^.25.
A crown of rejoicing, i Thess. ii.
19, 20.
A crown of righteousness. 2 Tim. iv.
5-8.
An unfading crown of glory i Pet. v.
4.
Reverence and Godly Fear. — The
judgment-seat of Christ. 2 Cor. v, 10,
II ; 2 Tim. iv. I.
Our God is a consuming fire. Heb. xii,
28, 29.
Seeing all these things shall be dissolv-
ed, what manner of workers ought we to
be ! 2 Pet. iii. 10-15.
VI.— THE OPPORTUNITIES.
The whole of the " Christian's life
here, as contrasted with the life hereafter,
is an opportunity to tell the gospel.
And had we anointed eyes, and were we,
as led by the Holy Spirit, en the watch
132
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
for opportunities, we should see them
every day, and many times a day.
Suggestions from the Old Testa-
ment.— God's words are to be in our
mouths, at home and abroad, by night
and by day. Deut. vi. 6-9.
The sound of a going in the mulberry
trees is a signal to bestir one's self. 2
Sam. V. 24.
One wise to discern opportunities makes
a good soldier, i Chron. xii. 32.
. A bow, drawn at a venture, smote a
king of Israel between the joints of his
harness. 2 Chron. xviii. 33.
Teaching in the New Testament.-
Every man's necessity or distress is our
opportunity to minister the gospel. Luke
X. 29-37.
Our gospel opportunities are now. 2
Cor. i. 2.
As we have opportunity, let us do good
unto all. Gal. vi. 10.
Buying up the time, (every opportunity).
Eph. V. 16 ; Col. iv. 5, 6.
In season, out of season. In these
passages, the words "opportunity,"
"time," and "season," are the same
word in the original. 2 Tim. iv. 2.
Exhort one another daily, while it is
called to-day. Heb. iii. 13.
Jesus, • in Every Circumstance,
FOUND AN Opportunity. — Wlien walk-
ing by the sea. Matt. iv. 18.
When teaching in the synagogue.
Matt. iv. 23.
When multitudes were gathered. Matt.
V. I ; Matt. xiii. 2.
When he was asked. Matt. viii. 2, 5.
Without being asked. Matt. viii. 14.
When men would have nothing to do
with him. Matt. viii. 29.
At a place of business. Matt. ix. 9.
When sitting at meat. Matt. ix. 10.
Even when considered unlawful. Matt.
xii. 10-12.
When inteiTupted. Matt. xii. 46, 50.
When he went out, and when he came
in. Matt. xiii. i, 36.
In his own town, (Luke iv. 16,) and
away from home. Malt. xv. 21-28; Matt.
xiii. '54-57.
When his privacy was invaded. Matt,
xiv. 13.
When men tried to catch him in hii
talk. Matt. xvi. 1-12.
On the mount of vision. Matt. xvii.
1. 13.
In the valley of human need- Matt,
xvii. 14-20.
When the tax-gatherers came to him.
Matt. xvii. 24-27.
Taking advantage of questions pro-
posed to him. Matt, xviii. i, 21 ; Matt,
xix. 3, 16, 27.
When his enemies sought to entangle
him. Matt. xxii. 15, 23, 35.
When a poor woman touched him in
the press, on his way to a ruler's house.
Mark v. 25-34 ; Cf Matt. xx. 29-34.
When he overheard disciples disputing.
Mark ix. 33.
As he sat over against the treasury.
Mark xii. 41.
As a child among the teachers of the
law. Luke ii. 46-49.
When he met a funeral procession.
Luke vii. 12.
When his attention was called to the
persecution of God's messenger. Luke
vii. 24.
When a woman, who was a sinner,
honored him in the presence of a rich
Pharisee. Luke vii. 37.
When men in jeopardy awoke him.
Luke viii. 23. ^'
When men would learn of him how to
pray. Luke xi. I.
When a woman praised him. Luke
xi. 27.
When men were shocked at his disre-
gard of religious proprieties. Luke xi.
When a lawyer (a teacher of the law —
God's word,) winced at his testimony.
Luke xi. 45.
When a man would use his influence to
get property for himself. Luke xii. 13.
When told of a murder and an accident.
Luke xiii. 1,4.
When an abstract theological question
was proposed, he made it the occasion of
a pciional admonition. Luke xiii. 23.
When men would stop his work by
warning him of danger. Luke xiii. 31.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
133
When men contended for social posi-
tion. Luke xiv. 7.
When some one made a pious observa-
tion about heaven. Luke xiv. 15.
When Pharisees murmured at his re-
ceiving sinners. Luke xv. 2.
When covetous men derided him.
Luke xvi. 14.
When he met self-satisfied religious
people. Luke xviii. 9.
When his disciples would have kept
back children. Luke xviii. 15.
When he met men by the way, he
joined them that he might open to them
the Scriptures. Luke xxiv. 13-32.
When men gave indication of interest.
John i. 38.
When he attended a wedding. John
ii. 2.
When one came to him secretly. John
iii. 2.
When wearied he sat on the well.
John iv. 6, 7.
When men followed him, though it
was only for loaves and fishes. John
vi. 26.
When men were thirsty. John vii. 37.
To a blind man he showed the Son of
God, as the light of the world. John
ix. 5.
To the dead he preached Jesus and the
resurrection. Cf. Acts viii. 35 ; xvii. 18 ;
John xi. I -45.
Jesus was never at a loss to introduce
the gospel. He made whatever was be-
fore men's eyes serve as an opportunity ;
£. g. sowing, grinding, fishing, a shepherd
and his sheep, a fig-tree, a vineyard,
bread, a well of water, the birds, the
flowers, the wind, the sun. In all this he
is surely our example. Every life, how-
ever ordinary, will be full of testimony
and blessing, if only we see that its fa-
miliar events are opportunities, and use
them for the Master.
WHAT AND HOW TO PREACH.
MAN A SINNER.
Under condemation awaiting penalty.
Rom. i. ii. iii.
god's remedy.
Christ crucified, i Cor. ii. 2 ; xv. 3 ; i
Peter i. 19, 20 ; Rev. xiii. 8.
I. Christ crucified the fulfilment of
the word. Gen. iii. 15, 21 ; iv. 4 ; viii.
20 ; xxii. 7, 8 ; xlii. ; Ex. xii. 5-7. The
tabernacle and its services explained by
the cross : so the sacrifices and feasts of
Leviticus : so the miracles of Num. xxi. :
so Elijah on Carmel, i Kings xviii. : so
prophecies, Isa. liii. The shadow of the
cross reaches from Genesis to Revelation.
We can take hold of almost any verse and
lift up the cross from it.
2. In preaching the cross we show the
nature of sin, Lukfe xx. 13-15 ; John xv.
24 ; xvi. 9 ; Acts iii. 14 ; Acts vii. 52.
3. Wrath of God against sin, Gal. iii.
13 ; I Peter ii. 24 ; iii. 18 ; Lev. xxvii.
29 ; Ps. xl. 12 ; xxii. i ; Ixxxviii. 7, 14-16;
Isa. liii, 4-6, 10.
4. God's love to the sinner, John iii.
16 ; Rom. V. 6-8 ; iv. 25 ; i John iii. 16 ;
iv. 9, 10.
5. God just in justification of those
deserving condemnation, Rom. iii. 24-26 ;
Isa. liii. 6 ; John v. 24 ; i John i. 7 ;
Rom. V. I ; vi. 6, 7, 22 ; Rom. viii. i.
PREACH RESURRECTION.
The apostles preached it, Acts i. 22 ;
ii. 24, 32 ; iii. 15, 26 ; iv. 10, 33 ; v. 30.
32 ; vii. 55, 56 ; x. 40-43 ; xiU. 30-39 ;
xvii. 31 ; xxvi. 8-22, 23.
DOCTRINES AND TRUTHS CONCERNING
CHRIST PROVED BY IT.
1. Christ as Son of God, Rom. iv. 4 ;
Heb. I. 5.
2. The promised seed of .Abraham,
Gal. iii. 16 ; Rom. ix. 7 ; Acts xiii. 32,
3. The promised Son of David, Acts i.
32 ; xiii. 34.
Justification declared by it, Rom. iv.
24-25 ; V. I ; I Cor. xv. 17.
Eternallife is Christ's resurrection life
in us, the new birth linked on to Him,
John iii. 3-5 ; Rom. vi. 3-5 ; Rom. vi. 22,
23 ; Gal. ii. 20 ; Eph. i. 19-23 ; ii. 5, 6.
All the hopes of the believer centre in
the coming resurrection of his own body,
of which the resurrection of Christ's
body is the promise and type, i Cor. xv.
134
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
20-23, 49-52; I Thess. iv. 14; Rom. viii.
II, 19-25.
HOW TO PREACH.
Read Luke viii., ix., x. Christ's in-
structions.
1 . The preacher should be in conscious
communion with God. Psalm li. 12, 13;
Acts iv. 31; 2 Timothy i. 14;. Acts vi. 4;
1 Cor. ii. 12, 13.
Peter was praying when he was sent to
Cornelius. Paul was praying when the
jailor came to him.
*' Instant in prayer," should be our!
motto if we would have power. j
2. Boldness in use of God's word, i
Confidence in our weapon. Rom. i. 15, 1
16; I Peter iv. 11; Titus ii. 15; Jer. i. 6-
10; (study Jeremiah's experience all the
way through upon this point) i Cor. ii. 3 ;
2 Cor. iv. 8-10 ; 2 Cor. vii. 4-6 ; 2 Cor.
xii. 9, 10.
3. As witnesses, — not in worldly
wisdom or argument. I Cor. i. 17-19; I
Cor. ii. 4, 5 ; 2 Tim. ii. 23-25. Christ
as witness. John iii. 11, 32, 33; so
apostles, Acts x. 39, 41, 42; xxii. 14, 15;
Acts xxvi. 22, 23; 2 Tim. ii. i, 2; i Tim.
iv. 12.
4. Dependence upon Holy Spirit. Luke
xxi. 15; I Thess. i. 5; Acts v. 32.
5. With sense of responsibility to God.
I Cor. iii. 9 ; Gal. i. 10 ; i Cor. iv. 3, 4 ;
I Thess. ii. 4, 6.
6. Adaptation to men. i Cor. ix. 20-
22; xiv. 18-20; I Cor. X. 32-33.
Keep in contact with men by engaging
in personal work. The personal applica-
tion of the gospel in contact with indi-
viduals should go hand-ih-hand with
preaching to audiences. In this way
we keep in sympathy with men, know
their needs and can adapt our public
presentations of truth to them. Illus-
trations to make the gospel clear should
be freely used, always making them the
back -ground of the picture that shows
"Jesus only."
7. In humility, i Cor. iy. 10-13; Acts
XX. 19.
8. In sincerity, 2 Cor. iv. 1, 2 , 2 Ccr.
ii. 17 ; I Thess. ii. 3, 5.
9. In love, 1 Cor. xiii. i; 2 Cor. v
20 ; 1 Thess ii. 7-9.
10. With joy, Luke x. 17 ; Isa. Ixiv. 5.
FRUIT BEARING.
(John >rv. 8.)
Fruit of the old man. Rom. vi. 2J ;
Rom. vii. 5.
Fruit of the new man. Rom. vi. 22 j.
Rom. vii. 4 ; Gal. v. 22, 23.
Fruit, our Father expects. Luke xiii.
6, 9 XX, 9, io.
Fruit, a mark ol God's children, MatL
vii. i6 ; xii. 33.
Fruit, Secret oi. John xv. 45 ; Matt,
xiii. 23 ; Col. 1. 5, 6.
Fruit, Hindrance to. Matt. xiii. 22 ;.
Luke viii. 14.
Fruit, Progressive. Mark iv. 28, 29.
Fruit, Subject of prayer. 2 Cor. ix..
10 ; Phil. 1. II , Col. i. ID.
Fruit, Not necessarily working. 2 Pet.
i. 5 ; Jas. iii. 17, 18 ; Phil. iv. 17; Heb.
xiii- 15 ; Rom. xv. 28.
Fruit, Under chasteninjj. Heb, xii. ii,
Fruit, Not leaves, (profession). Mark
xi. 13, 14
Fruit, Resali ol Christ's death. Johni
xii, 24.
Fruit, Result of not bearing. Jno.xv.2.
The God
The God
The God
The God
The God.
The God
The God
The Go.d
The God
The God
OUR GOD.
of trutti. Deut. xxxii* 4.
of all grace, i Peter v. \Ov
of peace. Phil. iv. 9.
of love. 2 Ccr. xiii. 11.
of all comfort. 2 Cor. i. 3.
of patience. Rom. xv. 5.
of hope. Rom. xv. 13.
of glory. Acts vii, 2.
of judgment. Isa. xxx. 18.
of mercies. 2 Cor. i. 13.
MUCH FRUIT.
John XV. 8.
1st, Fruit of "conversion of souls."
Rom. 13.
2ndj -'Fruit unto hohness." Rom. vi.
22.
3rd, "The fruit of our lips, giving
1 thanks." Heb. xiii. 15.
4th, "The fruit of giving." Phil.iv. 17.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
135
WINNING SOULS.
He that winneth souls is wise. Pro. xi. 30.
1. Our Prayer.— Acts ix. 6 ; Psa.
cxliii. 10 ; Psa. li.
2. Our Field. —Mark xvi. 15 ; John i.
41, 42, 45 ; John iv. 28, 29 ; Mark v. 19,
20 ; Acts viii. 26, &c. ; Acts xvi. 13-15
and 30-34 ; Jas. v. 20.
3. Our Time. — Matt. xxi. 28 ; 2 Cor.
vi. 2 ; Ecc. ix. 10 ; 2 Thess. iii. 13 ; Rev,
xxii. 7.
4. Our Motive. — 2 Cor. v. 14 ; Col.
iii. 23 ; John xxi. 15-17.
5. Our Helper. — Matt, xxviii. 20 ; 2
Cor. xii. 9 ; John xy. 5 ; Heb. xiii. 5.
6. Our Theme.— John iii. 16 ; Gal.
vi. 14 ; I Tim. i. 15 ; Rom. iv. 25 ; v. i,
2 ; John V. 24.
7. Our Message. — Ezek. xxxiii. 11 ;
2 Tim. iv. 2 ; Rom. i. 16 ; i Cor. i. 18 ;
I Thess. ii. 4 ; Eph. vi. 17.
8. Our Strength (or Power.) — Zee.
iv. 6 ; John xiv. 16, 17, 26 ; John xv.
26 ; John xvi. 7-11, 13 ; Acts i. 8; ii.
1-4 ; iv. 3i» 33-
9. Our Example.— ^John ix. 4 ; Luke
ii. 49 ; Rom. x. i ; Acts viii. 26, &c.
10. Our Reward. — Matt. xxv. 23 ; 2
Tim. iv. 8 ; Ps. cxxvi. 6 ; Rev. xxii. 12.
S. R. Briggs.
GOD'S THOUGHTS.
Higher than your thoughts. Is. iv. 9.
Thoughts of peace and not evil. Jer.
xxix. II.
Very deep. Psalm xcii. 5.
Precious unto me. Psalm cxxxix. 17.
Cannot be reckoned up. Psalm xl. 5.
More than can be numbered. Ps. xl. 5.
Prayer. — Think upon me, my God.
Neh. V. 19.
Assurance. — The Lord thinketh upon
me. Psalm xl. 17.
GOD'S WORDS.
Every Word of God is pure.
XXX. 5.
Prov.
The Word of God is a discemer of
the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Heb. iv. 12.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and
a light unto my path. Psalm ex ix. 105.
Thy W^ord is truth. John xvii. 17.
Thy W^ord v^ras unto me the joy and
rejoicing of mine heart. Jer. xv. 16.
How sweert are thy Words to my taste.
Psalm cxix. 103.
OUR WORDS.
"What manner of communications are
these that ye have one to another? " —
(Luke. xxiv. 17.)
I speak of things touching the King.
Psalm xlv. I.
His praise shall continually be in my
mouth. Psalm xxxiv. i.
I will speak of the honour of Thy
majesty. Psalm cxlv. 5.
My tongue shall talk of Thy righteous-
ness all the day long. Psalm Ixxi. 24.
I will speak of Thy testimonies. Psa.
cxix. 46.
I will mention the loving-kindness of
the Lord. Isaiah Ixiii. 7.
My tongue shall speak of Thy Word.
Psalm cxix. 172.
Ah, Lord God ! behold I cannot speak.
Jer. i. 6.
When I speak with thee I will open thy
mouth. Ezek. iii. 27.
It is not ye that speak, but the Spirit
of your Father which speaketh in you.
Matt. X. 20.
GOD OUR ROCK.
Salvation. — 2 Sam. xxii. 47.
Stability. — Matt. vii. 24, 25 ; Matt. xvi.
1,8.
Security. — Psalm xciv. 22.
Shelter. — Psalm Ixi. 3.
Satisfaction. — i Cor. x. 4.
Strength.— Psalm xxxi. 2. {Marg.)
Shadow. — Isaiah xxxii. 2.
TITLES OF GOD.
Jehovah, I am, was, and shall be.
Jehovah Elohim, the Lord God. Gen.
The Word of God is quick and power- j ii. 14. Jehovah Jireh, the Lord will
ful. Heb. iv. 12. [provide. Gen. xxii. 14. Jehovah Rophi,
136
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
the I,ord that tiealeth thee, or thy
physician. Ex. xv. 22 Jehovata Nissi.
the IxiTd my banner. Ex. xvii 24.
Jehovah Shalom, the Lord send peace.
Judges VI. 25. Jehovah Tsidkenn. the
Lord our Righteousness jer. xxih. 6.
Jehovah Shammah, the Lord is there.
Ezek. xlviii. 35.
TWO THINGS TAUGHT BY GOD
HIMSELF.
1. CoNfiNG TO Christ. — It is written
in the prophets, and they shall be all
taught of God. Every man therefore
that hath heard, and hath learned oj the \
Father, cotneti unto Me. John vi. 45.
2. Brotherly Love. — But as teaching
brotherly love, ye need not that I write
unto you; for ye yourselves are taught
of God to love one another, i Thess.iv.g. j
GOD'S COVENANT.
With David — 2 Sam. vti 1029 ^
Sam. xxiii. 1-5: Luke i 30-33, Luke i.
67-75. ^'^cts ii. 29-36; Acts xiii. 32-39.
Acts 1. 9-1 1 ; Isaiah xi. 32. .
With Me. — i Tim. i. 15; i John i. 25
I Peter 1. 3; John xiv. 1-3; John in. 16 .
John iii. 36; i Cor. iii. 23 , John iii. 33
Made by God.
Sealed by Christ.
Accepted by Me.
Witnessed by the Holy Spirit
THE SHINING OF GODS COUN-
TENANCE GIVES
Peace. — Numbers vi, 26.
Savmg Health, — Psalm Ixvii. i. 2,
Salvation. — Psalm Ixxx. 3, 7, rg.
By which we are taught God s statutes
Psalm cxix. 135,
COVENANTS OF GOD WITH HIS
PEOPLE.
The covenant of law. Exodus xxxiv.
10-28 ; Deut. V. 2-21 .
The covenant of redemption Gen.
iii. 15.
The covenant of peace. Isaiah liv.
10: Ez. xxxiv. 25, and xxxvii. 26.
The covenant of possession Exodus
xxix. 45-46; Deut. xxix. 13.
The covenant of safety. Gen vi. 18 ;
viii. 21-22, and ix. 9-17.
The covenant of prosperity and bles-
sing. Genesis vii. 1-13; xii. 1-3; xv. 18,
and xxii. 17-18; Exodus xix. 1-6; Isgiah ' tus i. 9 ; Eph. iii. 17, 18 ; Eph. vi. 11.
ABLE.
Power of God's word as an instrument
of spiritual transformation. 2 Tim. iii.
15-17 ; 2 Cor. X. 4 ; Acts xx. 32 ; Jas. i.
21.
God able to do in and through us.
Matt. ix. 28 ; Luke iii. 8.
Even the most unpromising. Rom. iv.
20, 21 ; Heb. xi. 19 ; Rom. xiv. 4 ; Heb.
ii. 18 ; John x. 29 ; Rom. viii. 39 ; 2 Tim.
i. 12 ; 2 Cor. ix. 8 ; Eph. iii. 20 ; Heb.
vii. 25 ; Phil. iii. 21 ; Matt. ix. 26 ; Mark
Mark ix. 23.
Human "ables" when guided by Divine
strength. 2 Tim. ii. 2 ; 2 Cor. iii. 6 ; Ti-
lix 2;.
The covenant of knowledge.
zxxi. 31.
Jer.
COVENANTS OF MAN WITH MAN
TOWARDS GOD.
The covenant of union. Jer. I, 5.
The covenant of separation. Ez. x.3.
The covenant of search. 2 Chron.xv.
12.
The covenant of obedience. 2 Kings
i;xiii. 3.
The covenant of walk. Neh. x. 29.
The covenant of service. Joshua
xxiv. 25.
The covenant of possession. 2 Kings
5" 17. S. C. W. H.
16 ; I Cor. X. 13 ; Jas. iii. 2 ; 2 Pet.
15-
—Mrs. M-
GOD IS LOVE.
He calls us sons, i John iii. 1,
His love is everlasting. Jeremiah
xxxi. 3.
He is for us. Romans viii. 31.
He gave His Son for us. John iii. 16 ,
JRomans viii. 32.
Who shall separate us from the love.
Romans viii. 35.
Nothing shall be able, &c. Romans
^'iii. 39-
We are safe in His love (No aian, &c.)
John X. 28.
The extent of His love (Unto the end.)
junn xiii. i.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
137
He will come Again for us. John xiv. 3.
He takes up His abode in us. John
«iv. 23.
He chastens us because He loves us.
Hebrews xii. 6.
He will never forsake us. Hebrews
-xiii. 5.
He sticketh closer than a brother to
us. Proverbs xviii. 24.
He has graven us on His hands.
Isaiah xlix. 16.
He has gone to prepare a place for us.
John xiv. 2.
His love gives peace. John xiv. 27.
He loves us as the Father loves.
John XV. 9.
He cares for us. i Peter v. 7.
He gives us rest. Matthew xi. 28.
GOD'S GIFTS.— NEW TESTAMENT.
Every good and perfect gift from God.
James i. 17.
The Gift. John iii. 16 ; 2 Cor. ix. 15 ;
Gal. ii. 20.
The living water. John iv. 10.
The true bread. John vi. 32.
All things freely. Rom. viii. 32.
Eternal life. John x. 28 ; Rom. vi. 23.
Rest. Matt. xi. 28.
Peace. John xiv. 27.
The Spirit. John xiv. 16 ; Rom. v. 5.
Grace. Eph. ii. 8.
More grace. James iv. 6.
Whatsoever ye ask. John xvi. 23.
Good things. Matt. vii. II.
Exceeding great and precious promises.
:2 Peter i. 4.
Power to overcome. Luke x. 19.
God's word. John xvii. 8, 14.
The glory of Jesus. John xvii. 22.
All things that pertain to life and godli-
tiess. 2 Peter i. 3.
All things richly to enjoy, i Tim. \i. 17.
The crown of righteousness. 2 Tim.
iv. 8.
A crown of life. Rev. ii. 10.
White robe. Rev. vi. 11.
GOD'S "UNSPEAKABLE GIFT."
(2 Cor. ix. 15.)
Unto us a Son is given. Luke ii. 10,
a I ; Isaiah ix. 6.
Given for a " covenant, a light." Heb.
; ii. 24 ; John viii. 12 ; Isaiah xiii. 6.
Given for a ' ' witness, a leader, a com-
■anander." Rev. i. 5 ; vii. 17 ; Isaiah Iv. 4.
God . . gave His only begotten Son.
Eph. i. 22 ; John iii. 16.
None other name given among men
whereby we must be saved. Acts iv. 12.
The gift of God is eternal life through
Jesus Christ. Rom, vi. 23.
God hath given to us eternal life, and
this lifi isin His Son. I John v. 11.
A free gift. Rom. v. 15-18..
CHRIST GAVE HIMSELF.
The good Shepherd giveth His life
for the sheep. John x. 1.1.
Christ hath loved us and given Him-
self for us. Eph. V. 2.
Christ also loved the Church, and
gave Himself for it. Eph. v. 25.
Who gave Himself for our sins. Gal.
i. 4.
Who gave Himself for me. Gal. ii. 20.
Who gave Himself a ransom for all.
I Tim. ii. 6.
Who gave Himself for us, that He
might redeem us. Titus ii. 14.
GIFTS IN THE UNSPEAKABLE
GIFT.
I will give you rest. Matt. xi. 28.
It is your Father's good pleasure to
give you the kingdom. Luke xii. 32.
He gave power to become sons of God.
John i. 12.
Living water. John vii. 37-39 ; John
iv. 10, 14, 15.
Bread of life. John vi. 51, 52 ; John
vi. 27, 31.34.
Eternal life. John xvii. 2 ; John x.
28.
An example, i Pet. ii. 21 ; John xiii.
15-
My peace. Rom. v. i ; John xiv. 27.
Whatsoever ye shall ask. Luke xi. 9 ;
John xvi. 23.
The words which Thou gavest me.
John xvii. 14 ; John xvii. 8.
The glory which Thou gavest me. 2
Cor. iii. 18 ; John xvii. 22.
He shall give you another Comforter.
Luke xi. 13 ; John xiv. 16.
Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy
Ghost. Acts V. 32 ; Acts ii. 38.
God hath given unto us the earnest of
the Spirit. 2 Cor. i. 22 ; 2 Cor. v. 5.
God hath given unto us his Holy Spirit.
I Thess. iv. 8.
The Spirit which He hath given us. i
John iv. 13 ; i John iii. 24.
The Spirit that we might
know the things freely given to us of
God. I Cor. ii. 12.
Gifts by the Holy Spirit. Rom. xii.
6 ; I Cor. xii. 4-11.
138
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Love of God .... by the Holy Ghost
whicli is given unto us. Rom. v. 5.
God hath shined in our hearts to give
the light of the knowledge of the glory of
God, in the face of Jesus Christ. Luke i.
77, 79; 2 Cor. vi. 6.
Spirit of wisdom and revelation.' Eph.
i. 17.
Spirit of power, and of love, and of a
sound mind. 2 Tim. i. 7.
A Saviour, to give repentance and for-
giveness of sins. Acts v. 31.
Saved by grace through faith . . . the
gift of God. Eph. ii. 8.
His own purpose and grace given us in
Christ Jesus. Eph. v. 7; 2 Tim. i. 9.
Given us everlasting consolation and
good hope through grace. 2 Thess. ii. 16.
He giveth more grace — giveth grace
unto the humble. James iv. 6.
Wisdom. Every good and perfect gift,
James i. 5, 17.
. Understanding. 2 Tim. iii. 16. — Scrip-
ture. I Jolin v. 20.
With Him freely give us all things, i
Tim. vi. 17; Rom. viii. 32.
All things which pertain to life and
godliness. 2 Peter i. 3.
Exceeding great and precious promises.
2 Peter i. 4.
Ministry of reconciliation. Eph. iii. 7,
8; 2 Cor. v. 18.
Ability, i Cor. iii. 7. The increase.
I Peter iv. 1 1 .
Unto you it is given, not only to be-
lieve, but to suffer. Matt. x. 19; Phil, i,
29.
To eat of tree of life. Rev. ii. 7.
A crown of life. Rev. ii. 10.
Hidden manna. Rev. ii. 17.
A white stone, a new name. Rev. ii.17.
Power over the nations. Rev. ii. 26.
A crown of righteousness. 2 Tim. .iv.8.
Victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
I Cor. XV. 57.
The Morning Star. Rev. ii. 28.
White robes. Rev. vi. ii.
Water of life freely. Rev. xxi. 6.
Light. Rev. xxii. 5.
Reward, according to work. Rev. xx.
12.
He hath sent Me to give unto
them beauty for ashes, the. oil of joy for
mourning, the garment of praise for the
spirit of heaviness. Isaiah xli. 3.
The Lord will give grace and glory. —
Psalm Ixxxiv. 11.
The Lord will give strength unto His-
people. Psalm xxix. 11.
He giveth grace unto the lowly.
Proverbs iii. 34.
He giveth power to the faint. Isaiah
xl. 29.
He shall give His angels charge over
thee. Psalm xci. ii; Psalm Ixxi. 3.
So He giveth His beloved sleep. Psalm,
cxxvii. 2.
I will give them an heart to know Me.
Jer. xxiv. 7.
A new heart will I give you. I will!
give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel xxxvi.
26.
Delight thyself in the Lord; and He-
shall give thee the desires of thine hearts
Psalm xxxvii. 4.
THE WILL OF GOD.
"Understanding what the will of God!
is."— Eph. V. 17.
Jesus our example. — John vi. 38;.
John V. 30; John iv.-34; Johnix. 4; John
xvii. 4; Psalm xl. 8; John viii. 28; Luke
xxii. 44; I Peter ii. 21.
His will towards us. — 2 Peter iii.
9 ; Luke xiv. 42, 44 ; James i. 18 ; John
vi. 40 ; John iii. 16 ; John xi. 25 ; Eph.
i. 5; Eph. ii. 19 ; Phil. iii. 20; i Thess..
iv. 3; Eph. i. 4; John vi. 39; Matt. xvii.
14; Joha x. 28 ; Luke xii. 32 ; i Sam. ii^
8 ; Rev. iii. 21 ; Eph. i. 9, 10 ; John x..
16; John xi. 52.
How to learn his will. — Phil. ii.
13; Heb. xiii. 21; 2 Cor. iii. 5; Rom.
xii. I, 2; Rom. vi. 13; i Chron. xxix. 5;.
I John V. 14; Rom. viii. 27; Ps. cxliii.
10; Psalm ex. 3; John vii. 17; Psalmi
cxi. 10; Psalm cxix. 99; Eph. v. 17;,
John xvi. 13; Col. i. 9; Eph. iii. 19;.
John i. 16.
How TO DO HIS will. — Eph. vi. 6;
I Peter iv. 2 ; Col. iii. 23 ; James iv. 15 ;;
Acts xxi. 14 ; Rom. i. 10 ; Ezra vii. 18 ;.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
I 39"
I Thess. V. i8; Psalm Ixix. 30; i Peter
ii. 15 . Epk. ii. 10; John xiv. 23 ; Matt.
vii. ai ; Luke xii. 47 ; James iv. 17.
The end — Everlasting Life. — i
Jokn ii. 17; Col. iv. 12; Eph. iv. 13;
Heb. xiii. 20, 21; 2 Cor. ix. 8; John
xvii 24 ; Rev. iii. 4 ; Rev. xxii. 3. 4 ; i
Thess. iv. 17.
Unbelief says. God hath forgotten :
faith says, I will remember the past
power of His right hand. Psalm Ixxvii.
9, 10.
His right hand upholdeth me from the
enemy. Psalm Ixiii. 8.
His right hand doth embrace me with
j affection and love — giving security and
I rest. Cant. ii. 6; viii. 3.
SEPARATION.
God's command. — 2 Cor. vi. 17 ; Rom.
xii. 2; I John ii. 15, 16.
Christ's declaration. — Matt. vi. 24 :
Matt. vii. 21 i Matt. x. 34-40; John xv.
.18-20
The choice. — Heb. xi. 24, 25, 26.
The promise to the faithful. — Mark x.
29, 30. 2 Cor. vi. 18 ; Rev. ii. 10.
THE GREAT THINGS OF GOD.
O, the depth of the riches of God.
Gift unspeakable. 2 Cor. ix. 15. Grace
exceeding abundant. i Tim. i. 14 ;
Eph. ii. 7. Greatness unsearchable.
Psalm cxlv. 3. Joy unspeakable. i
Peter i. 8. Judgments unsearchable.
Rom. xi. 33. Love that passeth know-
ledge. Eph. iii. ig. Peace that passeth
all understanding. Phil, iv, 7. Power
exceeding great. Eph, i. 19. Promises
exceeding great and precious. 2 Peter
i. 4. .Miches unsearchable. Eph. iii. 8.
Ways past finding out. Rom. xl. 33.
Weight of glory exceeding and eternal.
2 Cor. iv. 17.
THE NAMES THE APOSTLES
GIVE TO GOD.
God is light, i John i. 5.
God is love i Jchri iv, 8.
St. Matthew characterizes the Lord
as the King 01 the Jews.
St. Mark characterizes the Lord as
the Perfect Servant,
St. Luke characterizes the Lord as
the Son of Man
St. John characterizes the Lord as
the Son of God.
THE RIGHT HAND OF THE
LORD.
Power in redemption. Exodus xv. 6.
The Lord is at my right hand — comfort
for the desponding. Psalm xvi. 8.
TWELVE THOUGHTS ABOUT
GOD.
1. The fatherhood of God 1 will be
his Father, i Chron. xxviii. 6 ; Matt,
vi. 9,
2. The bounty of God. 1 will give
thee riches. 2 Chron. i. 12; Eph, ii. 7.
3. The most holy God, The most
holy house, 2 Chron. iii. 8, Rev. iv, 8,
4. The covenant-keeping God, Per-
formed His word. 1 Kings viii. 20;
Psalm Ixxxix. 34,
5. The prayer-hearing God. Hear
thou in heaven, i Kings viii. 30; Isaiah
Ixv. 24.
6. The ever-loving God, Loved Israel
forever, r Kings x. 9 ; John iii. 16.
7. The self-revealing God. I will make
known. Prov, i. 23; Exodus xxxiv. 6.7,
8. The law giving God. Forget not
my laws, Prov iii. i ; James iv. 12.
5. The sin-hating God. These dctb
the Lord hate. Prov, vi. id, Zech.
viii, 17.
10. The kindly-warning God. Look
not thou, Prov. xxii. ; Ezk. iii. }-j
11. The virtue-loving God. Above
rubies. Prov xxxi. 10 ; Psalm xxiv, 4.
12. The judgment rending God. Bring
into judgment. Ecc. xii. 14; Acts xvii,
31.
GOD OUR GUIDE.
We need a guide. Rom. iii. 12; Isaiah
Ii. 18; Isa. liii. 6; i Peter ii. 25; Luke
XIX. 10.
God desires to guide us. Jer. iii. 4 ;
Isaiah Iv. 4 ; Psalm xxv. 9 ; Psalm Ixxx.
I ; Isaiah xlviii. 27; xlii. 16; xlviii. 17,
Why? Isaiah Ixiii. 14.
God must be our only guide. Deut,
xii. 12.
f40
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
The only ground on which we can i
seekguidance. Psalmxxxi.3, andxxiii. 3.
HOW GOD GUIDES US. '
(
By His Word. Psalm cxix. 105 ; 2
Tim. iii. 16.
By His Spirit. Eze. xxxvi. 27 ; xi.ig;
John xvi. 13 ; Rom. viii. 14.
By His Providence. Psalm xxxvii.23;
Pro. xvi. 9.
By His eye. Psalm xxxii. 8.
By His counsel. Psalm Ixxiii. 24.
By His hands. Psalm Ixxviii. 72.
By His voice. Isaiah xxx. 21 ; Pro.
viii. 4 ; Psalm Ixxxi. 11 ; John x. 3-5.
By His strength. Exodus xv. 13.
On every side. 2 Chron. xxxii. 22.
By trial. Deut. xxxii. 10-11; Isaiah
xlii. 16 ; Jer. xxxi. 9 ; Cant. viii. 5 ; Prov.
xvi. 9.
WHERE GOD GUIDES US.
Into all truth. John xvi. 13; Psalm
xliii. 3.
Into the way of peace. Luke i. 79 ;
Psalm cxxxix. 24 ; Prov. viii. 20.
To repentance. Rom. ii.4: Prov. i. 23.
In the wilderness. Psalm Ixxviii. 52.
By springs of water. Isaiah xlix. 10;
Psalm xxiii, 2 ; John iv. 10.
How long? Psalm xlviii. 14; Exodus
xii'2i, 22; Isaiahlviii.il.
Even when straying. Isaiah Ivii. 17-18.
In heaven forever. Rev.vii. 17; xiv. 4.
Other guides lead to destruction.
Matt. vii. 13 : xv. 14 ; xxiii. 16.
GOD GIVES TO ALL.
Breath, spirit. Isaiah xlii. 5.
The sun for a light. Jer. xxxi. 35.
Seed-time and harvest. Gen. viii. 22
Food to all flesh. Psalm cxxxvi. 25.
Life, breath, and all things. Acts xvii
25-
Openest thy hand. Psalm cxlv. 15, 16
To all men liberally. James i. 5.
Every man according to his works
Rev. ii. 23.
Tender merices over all. Ps. cxlv. 9.
GOD GIVES TO BELIEVERS.
The living bread. John v. 51.
Giveth liglit. Ps. cxix. 130.
A mouth and wisdom. Luke xxi. 15.
Songs in the night. Job xxxv. 10
Sufficient grace. 2 Cor. xii, 8, 9.
All things. 1 Tim. vi. 17.
The victory. 1 Cor. xv. 55, 57.
Crown laid up. 2 Tim. iv. 8.
To sit on His throne. Rev. iii. 21.
A lively hope. 1 Pet. i. 3, &c.
More grace. James iv. 6.
GOD S KNOWLEDGE OF MAN.
Read cxxxix Psalm.
I Chron. xxviii. 9; jer. xvii. 10 ; Psa.
xliv. 21 ; Acts XV. 8-18 ; Heb. iv. 12-13 :
John xxi. 17; John ii. 24-25; i Sam. xvi.
7 ; 2 Chron. vi. 30 ; Jer. xxxii. 18-19; Job
xxxiv. 21-22 ; Psalm xvi. 7 ; Prov. v. 21;
Prov. XV. 3 ; Acts i. 24 ; Matt. ix. 4; John
vi. 64 ; John xvi. 30 ; i Thess. ii. 4; Rev.
ii. 23.
Rom
iii. 14,
John X.
31, 39
GOD THE GIVER.
vii. 23 ; 1 John v. 11-13 ; John
16 ; 2 Cor. ix. 15 ; Gal. ii. 20 ;
27-29 ; Eph. ii. 4-10 ; Rom- viii.
I Cor. iii. 21-23 ; Rom. xi. 29 ;
Acts xxvi. 18
Rom. vi. I4.
ii. I.
Num. xxiii. 19.
GOD DELIVERS HIS PEOPLE
FROM
The power of Satan.
Ps. cxxiv. 7.
The dominion of sin.
Spiritual death. Eph.
The horrible pit. Ps. xl. 2 ; xxxii. 5
The unrest of the wicked, Isa. Ivii, 20.
The fear of death. Heb. ii. 15.
The wrath to come. 1 Thess. i. 10.
A11 evil. Gen. xlviii. 16.
The fear of man. Prov. xxix. 25.
The love of money, i Tim. vi. iO,il.
Out of trouble, Rs. Uv. 7.
Anxious care. Phil. iv. 6.
GOD CALLS HIS PEOPLE TO
Marvellous light. i Pet. li. 9; v. 10
Consecration and holiness. Rom. xii
I ; 2 Thes. iv. 7.
Liberty. Gal. v. 13.
The fellowship of Christ, i Cor. i. 9.
Heavenly inheritance. I Pet. i. 4.
Patience and suffering, i Pet. ii. 20.
Eternal glory. I Pet. v. lO.
Peace. Col. iii. 15.
By name. Isa. xliii. i ; John x. 3.
According to his purpose. 2 Tim. i. 9
To walk before him. Gen. xvii. i.
To the fight of faith, &c I Tim- vi. 12.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
141
THE LORD OUR HELPER.
Vain is the help of man. Ps. Ix. 11.
Fear not, I will help. Isa. xli. 10.
My helper, I will not fear. Heb. xiii. 6.
Very present. Ps. xlvi. i ; Ixxii. 12.
Help of His countenance. Ps. xlii. 5.
Shield of thy help. Deut. xxxiii. 29.
Power to 'help. 2 Chron. xxv. 8.
Hitherto, i Sam. vi. 12 ; Actsxxvi. 22.
Thy judgments. Ps. cxix. 173, 175.
Lord, help me. Matt. xv. 25.
Name of the Lord. Ps. cxxiv. 8.
THE LORD OUR STRENGTH.
Our refuge and strength. Ps. xlvi. I.
Strength of heart and life. Ps. xxvii.
1 ; Ixxiii. 26.
Strength in my soul. Ps. cxxxviii. 3.
Everlasting strength. Isa. xxvi. 4.
Perfect in weakness. 2 Cor. xii. 9.
By waiting on Him. Isa. xl. 31.
According to Thy word. Ps. cxix. 28.
Take hold of. Isa. xxvii. 5.
Saving strength. Ps. xxvii. 8.
The strength of Israel, i Sam. xv. 29.
The joy of the Lord. Nehem. viii. 10.
GOD'S PEOPLE-FARMERS.
Break up fallow. Jer. iv. 3.
Plough, break clods. Hos. x. 11-12.
In the morning sow. Eccl. xi. 6.
They that sow in tears. Ps. cxxvi. 5.
Bearing precious seed. Ps. cxxvi. 6.
The seed is the Word of God. Luke
vii. II.
The field is the world. Matt. xiii. 38.
Sow beside all waters. Isa. xxxii. 20.
In righteousness. Hos. x. 12.
Sow to spirit — in due season reap.
Gal. vi. 8, 9.
Planteth — watereth. i Cor. iii. 6 to 8.
Whatsoever a man soweth. Gal. vi. 7.
Receive th wages. John iv. 36.
Fields white to harvest. John iv. 35.
Sower and reaper — rejoice. John iv.
36.
The vineyard is house of Israel. Isa.
V. 7-
Son, go work to-day. Matt. xxi. 28.
Labourers together with God. i Cor.
iii. 9.
Harvest plenteous- labourers few. Mat.
ix. 37.
Pray the Lord of the Harvest. Matt,
ix. ^58. '
GOD'S PEOPLE-TRADERS.
With Master's money. Matt. xxv. 14,.
15-
Consider diligently. Ps. Ixxvii. 5, 6.
Use good merchandise. Pro. iii. 14-15.
If diligent, prosperous. Pro. xii. 14 ;
xiii. 4.
Stand before kings. Pro. xxii. 29.
Do it with thy might. Eccl. ix. 10.
Prepared with all thy might, i Chron.
xxix. 2.
He giveth wisdom and might. Dan. ii.
20 to 23.
Diligently done for God. Ezra vii.
23 to 28.
Labours to be accepted. 2 Cor. v. 9 ;
Rev. ii. 2, ^.
Striving according to his working. Col.
i. 29.
In all labour there is profit. Prov. xiv.
23-
Profit of the earth for all. Eccl. v. 9.
Wisdom is profit, defence. Ecc. vii. 11.
On credit — The faith. Heb. xi. i .
Promptly — Redeeming the time. Eph.
V. 16.
Now — To-day. 2 Cor. vi. 2 ; Heb..
iii. 13.
Gains now. i Tim. vi. 6.
Hast gained thy brother. Matt, xviii.
Gains in death. Phil. i. 21.
Gains hereafter. Matt. xxv. 2d'; Dan.
xii. 3.
Labour not in vain, i Cor. xv. 58.
GOD'S PEOPLE— PILGRIMS.
Get thee out of thy country. Gen. xii.
IH.
No city to dwell in, Ps. cvii. 4.
Not your rest — polluted, Mic. ii. 10.
Ask way to Zion, Jer. 1. 5.
Shall come to Zion, Isaiah xxxv. 10.
Go forth out of the land, Jer. 1. 8.
Dwelling in tents, Heb. xi. 9.
The Lord leads. Psalm cvii. 6, 7.
From strength to strength. Psalm:
Ixxxiv. 7.
Through the enemy's world, i John v-
19.
Snares laid for them, Ps. cxl. 1-5.
14^
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Revived amid trouble, Ps. cxxxviii. 7.
Pilgiim? and strangers, Heb. xi. 13.
A city prepared for them, Heb. xi. 16.
Affections on things above, Col. iii. 2.
Abstain from fleshly lusts, i Pet. ii. 11.
Walk worthy of God, Col. i. 10.
Sojourning here in fear, i Pet. i. 17.
Conversation in heaven, Phil. iii. 20.
Find streams in the desert, Isaiah
XXXV. 6.
A highway — wayfarer — not err, Isaiah
>xxxv. 8.
With supplications will I lead, Jer.
:xxxi. 9.
God himself be with them, Josh. i. 9.
Hear a word — This is the way, Isaiah
XXX. 21.
Come thou with us. Num. x. 29.
THE GREAT THINGS OF GOD.
" O the depth.... of the riches of God."
Gift unspeakable. 2 Cor. ix. 15.
Grace exceeding abundant. i Tim.
\. 14 ; Eph. ii. 7.
Greatness unsearchable. Psa. cxlv. 3.
Joy unspeakable, i Peter i. 8.
Judgments unsearchable. Rom. xi. 33.
Love that passeth knowledge. Eph.
tii. 19.
Peace that passeth all understanding.
Phil. iv. 7.
Power exceeding great. Eph. i. 19.
Promises exceeding great and precious.
2 Peter i. 4.
Riches unsearchable. Eph. iii. 8.
Ways past finding out. Rom. xi. 33,
Weight of glory exceeding and eternal.
^ Cor. iv. 17.
DEPENDENCE ON GOD.
Phillippians iv. 13 ; Proverbs iii. 5, 6 ;
Jeremiah x. 23 ; John xv. 5 ; 2 Chron.
-XX. 12 ; 2 Chron. xvi. 9; 2 Chron. xiv.
II ; Ephesians vi. 10.
FATHER. ■
Our Father, Matt. vi. 9 ; Luke xi. 2 ;
Isaiah Ixiv. 8.
A Father, Psalm ciii. 13.
My Father, John xx. 17.
Abba Father, Rom. viii. 15 ; Gal. iv. 6.
Everlasting Father, Isaiah ix. 6.
THE DEEP THINGS OF GOD.
His unspeakable gilt, 2 Cor. ix. 15.
Joy unspeakable, I Pet. i. 8.
The unsearchable riches of Christ,
Eph. iii. 8.
How unsearchable are his judgments,
Rom. xi. 33.
His ways past finding out, Rom. xi. 33.
The love of Christ which passeth
knowledge, Eph. iii. 19.
The peace of God which passeth all
understanding. Ph. iv. 7.
Thoughts which are to us-ward more
than can be numbered, Ps. xl. 5.
Unspeakable words, which it is not
possible for a man to utter, 2 Cor. xii. 4.
Intercession for us with groanings that
cannot be uttered, Rom. viii. 26.
• Him that is able to do exceeding
abundantly above all that we ask or
think, Eph. iii. 20.
The Spirit searcheth all things ; yea,
the deep things of God, i Cor. ii. 10.
«'I BELIEVE IN GOD."
I. — I BELIEVE.
"I believe" is the one source of all
spiritual knowledge, Heb. ii. i.
"I believe " is the test of discipleship.
It was the one requirement which Philip
demanded of the Ethiopian, the one
condition on which he was baptized.
Acts viii. 37.
" I believe" is the spirit and the ground
of all true worship, John ix. 38 ; com-
pare John XX. 28.
*' I believe" is the source of strength,
the secret of obtaining Divine help,
Mark x. 23, 24.
"I believe" brings hope and comfort
to the troubled, John xi. 27.
"I believe " is the power of preaching
and witnessing for Jesus, 2 Cor. iv. 13.
II. — IN GOD.
This must be the first article of our
belief, Heb. xi. 6.
There is a witness in our hearts, a
something within every man that testifies
that God is.
There is a witness in nature. The
design, harmony, and beauty which are
so manifest in all created things, prove
the existence of God, Acts xiv. 17. By
these visible things, the invisible things
NOTES FOR BIBLE READ I NX 3.
H3
of God, even His eternal power and ;
'Godhead, are clearly seen, Rora. i. 19,
20 ; Ps. xix, I. '
But, above all, it is by His Word that
God hath fully revealed his character
-and will to all men. "In these last
•days" God hath spoken unto us by His
Son, (Heb. i. i.) who both declares the
Father (John i. 18), and shows him
unto us.— John xiv. 8, 9. The purpose
of this revelation is that we may be-
<come wise unto salvation, (2 Tim. iii.
15) , that we may know the only true
God, which is life eternal. John xvii. 3.
Our word " God ' means " good." We
have the same word in the first syllable
>of "gospel," which means " good news."
To the Jews he especially revealed
himself by his name Jehovah, which ex-
presses the self-existence and unchange-
ableness of God. " He that was, and
that IS, and that shall be." the great " I
AM " (Ex. iii. 14 ; vi. 3), Jesusclaimed
this divine name (John viii. 58). Com-
pare Heb. xiii. 8 ; Rev. i. 4, 8 ; iv. 8 ;
Ki, 17. He is Jehovah-Jireh, Who pro-
videth (Gen, xxii. 14) ; Jehovah-Rophi,
vVho healeth (Ex. xv. 26) ; Jehovah-
.Nissi, Who defendeth (Ex. xvii. 15) ;
Jehovah-Shalom, Who giveth peace
Judges vi. 24) ; Jehovah-Tsidkenu, Who
vs our righteousness (Jer. xxiii. 6) ; Jeho-
'vah-Shammah. Who dwelleth with us
(Ezek. xlviii. 35) ; Immanuel, ' God
^ithus" (Matt, i, 23; Rev. xxi. 3; xxii. 3,
III. 1 BELIEVE IN GOD.
That is, not, I believe that there is a
'God, This the devils believe (James ii.
19). Only fools deny it (Ps. xiv. i).
Nor is it merely I believe God. There
may be intellectual belief m revelation,
•which leaves the heart untouched and
the conscience unenlightened. But it is
"I believe in God." Abraham "believ-
'cd m the Lord" (Gen. xv. 6). And the
-very expressive Hebrew word literally
amplies, to be carried, sustained as a
•child m Its mother's arms Such is true
< th the clmgmg of the child in its
helplessness and simplicity to the Love
of the Father. We must thus become
as little children (Matt, xviii. 3).
MY FATHERS
House, (earthly.) T^^lin a. 6.
Name. John v. 43. "
Will. John vi. 39.
Hand. John x. 29.
Hotise. (heavenly.) John xiv.
Word. John xiv. 24.
Commandment. John xv. 10.
2.
THE EYE OF GOD EVERYWHERE.
1. For the ways of man are before the
eyes of the Lord, and He pondereth all
His goings. Prov. v. 21 ; xv. 3.
2. All things are naked and open unto
the eyes of Him with whom we have to
do. Heb. iv. 13 ; John iv, 24; 1 Sam.xvi.7..
3. His eyes are upon the ways of man
and He seeth all His goings. Jobxxxiv.
21 ; I John iii. 20.
4. Thine eyes are open upon all the
ways of .the sons of men. &c. Jer.xxxii.
19 ; Psalm cxxxix. 12.
5. Can any hide himself in secret
places, &c., &c. Jer- xxiii. 24. Proper
effect on us. Psalm ii, 11.
6. Sinners try to forget that God
sees them, but Ecc. xii. 14 ; Psalm
cxxxix. II.
Illustrations. Adam, (Gen. iii. 10.)
Israel, Jonah.
7. Thou God seest me. Gen. xvi. 13 ,
A source of joy. 2 Chron. xvi. g.
GOD'S PRESENCE.
(ExOdus xxxiii. 14.)
The secret of- —
1 . Wisdom in daily life. Exodus
xxxix. 2 ; I Sam. xvi. 18; i Sam. xviii. 14
2. Power for testimony, i Sam.iii. 19,
Jer. i. 8; Acts xvii. 9-10.
3. Strength in suffering. Gen. xxxi.\.
21; Psalm xci. 15; Isaiah xliii. 2: ;
Tim. iv. 17.
Lo. I am with you alway. Malt
xxviii. 20.
THINGS PREPARED BY GOD.
1 Cor ii. 9.
in grace (For those who dont love
Him) salvation for lost. Luke ii. 31 ;
Matt xxii. a '■ Psalm Ixviii. 10 : Rev. xxi.
144
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
6 ; Isaiah Iv. i ; Rom. iii. 24 ; Rom. vi.
23; Johniv. 14.
For the hungry and unsatisfied. John
vi.
In glory (For those who love Flim.)
Matt. XXV. 33, 34 ; xx. 23 ; Heb. xi. 16;
John xiv. 3.
Heaven a prepared place for a prepared
people. Now. Psalm xxiii. 5 ; Jonah iv.
6, 7, 8; Eph. ii. 10.
Rough path, but the loving hand
places each stone. Exod. xxxiii. 20 ; 2
Kings V. 18 ; Prov. ix. 23; 2 Tim. ii. 21;
Prov. kix. 29; Psalm ix. 7; Acts xiii. 46;
Psalm vii. 13 ; Matt. xxv. 41 ; Amos iv,
12 ; Prov. xvi. i ; Psalm x. i ; 2 Chron.
xxix. 36; Luke xiii. 47.
GOD'S HAND.
Touched. Jobxix. 21.
Cleansing. Matt. viii. 3.
Withering. Gen. xxxii. 25.
Comforting. Rev. i. 17.
Consecration. Eyes. Matt. ix. 29. Ear.
Tongue. Mark vii. 33.
No other may "touch." Zech. ii. 8;
I John V. 18.
S tm. PERFEtF,
Deut. xxxii. 34; Psalm, xviii. 30; Rom.
xii. 2.
GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY.
Luke XV. 4 ; Prov. i. 24 ; John vi. 37 ;
John vi. 44 ; Eph. ii. 5 ; James i. 18;
John XV. 16 ; Acts xiii. 38 ; Eph. i. 4 ;
Prov. i. 23.
MAN'S RESPONSIBILITY.
Luke XV. 19; Prov. i. 24; John vi. 37;
John V. 46 ; Jer. xxix. 13 ; James iv. 8 ;
Eph. V. 14 ; Isaiah xlv. 22 ; Prov. i. 23 ;
Rom. i. 21-22; 2 Thess. ii. 10; Zech. ix.
12; I Thess. i. 9.
THE LORD'S PEOPLE ARE
Round about Him. Psalm Ixxvi. ii.
After Him. Num. xxxii. 15; Song i. 4.
Before Him. 2 Chron. xxix. 11.
Behind Him. Luke vii, 38.
By Him . Deut, xxxiii. 12.
In Him. i John iii. 24.
With Him. i Thess. v. 10.
In His hand. Deut. xxxiii. 3.
"OUR FATHER."
One of the many titles of God. See
Isaiah Ixiv. 8.
We are taught by Jesus Himself to-
call God "Our Father." Matt. v. 16,.
45. 48.
Twelve references to God as "Our
Father." Matt. vi. See also Matt. vii.
11; John XX. 17.
How do we become His children ?
By adoption. Eph. i. 4, 5 ; Romans-
viii. 15.
By His word. Johni. 12; i Pet. i. 2, 3.
By the Spirit of God. Rom. viii. 14.
By faith in Christ Jesus. Gal. iii. 26.
God's love is shown in permitting us tO'
be called the sons of God. i John iii. i \
2 Cor. vi. 18.
" How do we know we are children?
By the witness of the Spirit. Romans
viii. 16; Gal. iv. 6.
If we have such a loving Father, we
may be sure He will take care o-'' us.
Psalm ciii. 13; Isaiah xlix. 15. .
He will give us all things that He see&
good for us. Psalm xxxiv. 9, 10 ; Rom.
viii. 31, 32; Rom. viii. 28.
We may pray to Him and ask Him.
for all we need. Matt. vii. 7-1 1 ; Eph.
iii. 20.
We may tell Him all our sorrows.
Matt. vi. 6,Z\ I Peter v. 7. Read John
xvii. 21, 22, 23, 24.
LOVE IS OF GOD.
" Beloved, let us love one another r
for love is of God; and every one that
loveth is born of God, and knowetb
God." (I John iv. 7, 8.)
Love is the evidence of life in Christ.
I John iii. 14.
Love is the first "fruit of the Spirit.""
Gal. v. 22.
Love is the activity of faith. Gal. v. 6.
Love is the "fulfilling of the law."
Rom. xiii. 10.
Love is the "new commandment."
John xiii. 34.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
^45
Love IS the debt we owe one another.
Rom. xiii. 8.
Love IS the proof of true " disciple-
ship." John xiii. 35.
Love is the test of pastoral qualifica-
tion. John XXI. 15.
Love IS the "bond of perfectness. "
Col. lii. 14.
Love is more precious than earthly
riches. Cant. viii. 7.
Love is strong as death. Cant. viu. 6.
Love is not to be in word only. Love
is to be in dged and in truth, i John iii. 18.
Love is to be fervent, out of a pure
heart. 1 Peter i. 22.
Love is to abound yet more and more.
1 Thess. iii. 12.
Love constrains to self-denying service.
2 Cor, V. 14.
Love becometh "dear children."
Eph. V. I, 2.
Love will cover a multitude of sins,
Prov. X. 12.
Love sufifereth iong, and is kind.
Love envieth not. Love vaunteth not
itself. Love is not puffed up. Love
doth not behave itself unseemly. Love
seeketh not her own. Love is not easily
offended. Love thinketh no evil. Love
re]oiceth not in iniquity. Love rejoiceth
in the truth. Love beareth all things.
Love believeth all things. Love hopeth
all things. Love endureth all things.
Love never faileth. i Cor. xiii.
" This IS love, that we walk after His
commandments."
THE LOVE OF THE INFINITE
GOD.
The love of the Father, i John iv. 8 ;
John ill. 16; I John iv, 9, 10.
The love of the Son. Gal. ii. 20;
Eph. V. 2 ; John xv. ig.
The love of the Spirit. Rom. xv. 30.
WAITING.
Should I wait tor the Lord any
longer ? 2 Kings vi. 33,
Rest m the Lord, and wait patiently
lor him.
My soul, wait thou only upon God.
Psalm ixii. 5.
I will wait upon the Lord, tnat hideth
his face. Isaiah viii. 17.
It is good that a man both nope and
quietly wait for the Lord. Lam. iii. 26.
They that wait upon the Lord shall
r-enew their strength. Isaiah xl. 31.
9
They shall not be ashamed that wait
for Me. Isaiah xlix. 23.
Our soul waiteth for the Lord, He is
our help and our shield. Psa. xxxiii. 20.
I waited patiently for the Lord ; and
He heard my cry. Psalm xl. i.
Blessed are all they that wait for Him
Isaiah XXX. 18.
The Lord direct your hearts into
the patient waiting for Christ 2 Thess.
lii. 5.
Since the beginning of the wcria men
have not heard, nor perceived by tne
ear, neither hath the eye seen. O God,
beside Thee, what He hatti prepared
for him that waiteth for Him. Isaiah
Ixiv, 4.
THE KING.
Who is this King ? Psalm xxiv. 8.
The Lord is King forever. Psalm x, 16.
God is the King. Psalm xlvii. 6.
The Lord the King. Psalm xlviii. 6.
The holy one of Israel is our King.
Psalm Ixxxix. 18.
My God, my King, Psalm Ixviii. 22.
My King and my God. Psalm v, 2.
The Lord shall be King Zech. ix 3.
The Lord is our King. Isaiah xxxii.22.
God is my King, Psalm Ixxiv i 2,
Where is He that is born King ?
Matt ii. 2.
Jesus the King. Matt, xxvii. 37,*
Acts xvii. 7,
King of saints. Rev, xv, 3.
King of kings. Rev. xvii. 14 ; i Tim.
vi. 15.
HIS FACE
Make thy face to shine upon tby
servant. Psalm xxxi. 16.
Cause thy face to shine and we shali
be saved. Psalm Ixxx. 7.
I will behold thy face, Psalm xvii. i 5.
His face did shine as the sun. Man
xvii. 2.
His face has the appearance of light-
ning. Daniel x.
His countenance is as Leoanon.
Song V. 15.
He IS altogether lovely. Song v. i5.
HIS voict:. \Song ii. S.)
As the sound cl many waters. Rev.
i. 15.
Like the noise of many waters. £ze.
xliii. 2.
146
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Like the voice of a multitude. Dan.
X. 16.
Full of majesty. Psalm xxbc. 4.
HIS FEET.
Like unto fine brass. Rev. i. 15.
The clouds dust of His feet.
Nahum i. 3.
Shall stand upon the Mount of Olives.
Zech., xiv. 4.
Held Him by the feet. Matt, xxviii.3.
Began to wash... with tears. Luke
vii 38.
Sat at Jesus' feet. Luke x. 39.
Behold My hands and feet. Luke
xxiv. 39.
They pierced My hands and feet.
Psalm xxii. 16.
Hath put all things under His feet,
Eph. i. 22,
HIS MOUTrf.
Most sweet. Song v. 16.
The kisses of .... Song i. 2.
No deceit m .... Isaiah liii. 9.
We. . . .have heard of. . . .Luke xxii.71.
They filled a sponge with vinegar and
put it to His mouth. John xix. 29,
A sharp two edged sword, went out
of .... Rev. i. 16.
Gracious words that proceeded out
of ... . Luke iv. 22.
His EYES.
As the eyes of doves. Song v, 12.
As a flame of fire. Rev. xix. 12 ; 1. 14.
As a lamp of fire. Daniel x, 6.
HIS HEAD.
As the most fine gold. Song v. n.
Had not where to lay His head.
Matt. viii. 20,
They smote Him on the head. Matt,
xxvii. 30.
Platted a crown of thorns and put it
upon His head. Matt, xxvii. 29.
On His head were many crowns Rev.
xix 12.
His HANDS,
As gold rings set with the beryl.
Song v, 14.
None can stay His hand. Dan. v 35
Hath given all things into His hands,
johc iii. 35.
Savest by thy right hand them which
put their trust in Thee. Psalm xvii. 7.
Thy nght nand holdeth me. Psalm
sviii. 35,
Thev pierced mv hands Psalm xxii. lo.
He lifted up His hands and blessed
them. Luke xxiv. 50.
I have graven thee upon the palms of
My hands. Isaiah xlix. 16.
HIS LIPS.
Like lilies. Song v. 13.
Grace is poured into thy lips. Psalm
xiv. 2.
As the honeycomb. Song iv. 2.
His lips are full of indignation.
Isaiah xxx. 27.
HIS NAME.
As ointment — ned forth. Song i. 3.
driven by Go<. Phil. ii. 9.
His name shall be called, &c. Isaiah
ix. 6.
Is called the word of God. Rev.xix.13;
John i. I.
His name shall be in their foreheads.
Rev. xxii. 4.
Thou shalt call his name Jesus. Matt.
i. 21.
HIMSELF.
Not for himself. Dan. ix. 26.
Gave Himself for me. Gal. ii, 10.
Gave himself for us. Gal. i. 4.
Offered up himself. Num. xvi. 9.
He himself hath suffered. Heb. ii. 18.
Things concerning himself. Luke xxiv.
27
The Lord Himself shall descend from
heaven, i Thes. iv. 16.
THEY SAW THE FACE OF THE
KING.
(Jer. Iii. 25.)
The King.— Deu. xvii. .15 ; Heb. ii.
14-17.
King's Robe. — Isa. Ixi. 10; i Sam.
jfviii. 4.
King's Sons. — 2 Sam. ix. 2 ; i Sam.
xviii, 23 ; i Jo. iii. i ; 2 Sam. xix. 28 ;
Eph. ii. I ; Judg. viii. 18 ; i John iv.
16, 17.
King's Throne. — Rev. iii. 20 ; Acts
xii. 16 ; Luke xix. 5-7 ; Col. ii. 6 ; i
Pet. iii. 15.
King's Face. — John vi. 40 ; xii. 21 ;
Luke xxiv. 42 ; Ex. xxxiii. 20 j 2 Cor. iv.
6; ui. 18.
King's Table. — Ps. Xxiii ; I Kg. iv.
27 ; X. 5 ; Song ii. 4; i. 12 ; 2 Sam. ix ;
Esther i. 7 ; li. 18 ; John xii. 2 ; Eph.
ii. 1-7 ; Phil. iv.. 19.
King's Friendship.— Prov. xxii. 11 ;
Jer. xxxviii. 5 ; Mat. v. 8.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
My
King's Power. — Prov. xx. 8 ; Ecc. viii.
4 ; 2 Chron. iii. 2, 8.
King also a Shephei'd. — Ps. xxiii ; i
Sam. xii. 2 ; Deut. i. 30 ; John x. 4.
Personal love to the King.— 2 Sam. iv.
36 ; XV. 21 ; 2 Sam. xx. 2.
King's work. — i Sam. xxi. 8 ; Luke
ii. 49 ; Num. xvi. 9. From the Bosom —
John i. 18 ; I John i. 23 ; Rev. xxii. 4 ;
Ps. Ixxxix. 15. Absalom — 2 Sam.
xjv. 28 ; 2 Cor. iv. 4 ; i Chr. iv. 23 ;
I Cor. vii. 24 ; i Chron. xii. 38 ; Heb.
xi. 27 ; Acts vii. 55 ; vi. 15.
King's reward. — 2 Sam. xix. 32-36 ;
Mat. xxv. 40.
King's presence. — Neh. ii. i ; Esth. iv.
a ; V. I ; Ps. xvi. 11 ; Ezek. xlvi. 10 ; 2
Sam. iii. 17, 18.— E. H. H.
JESUS LOVED US, AND GAVE
HIMSELF
For our sins. Gal. i. 4.
For me. Gal. ii. 20.
For us. Eph. v, 2."
For the church. Eph. v. 25,
For all. I Tim. ii. 6.
GRACE ABOUNDING.
(Psa. ciii. 3-5 )
Forgiveth. Luke vii. 36-50
Healeth. Luke viii. 43-48.
Redeemeth. Luke viii. 49-56.
Crowneth. Luke xv, ii-24.
Satisfieth. Luke xv. 19-20.
JESUS THE PRINCE OF PEACE,
OR GOD OF PEACE.
Isa. ix. 6 ; 2 Cor. xiii. 11 ; Micah v,
5 ; I Thess. v. 23 ; Eph. ii, 14 ; Heb.
xiii. 20 ; Rom. xv. 33 ; Rom. xvi. 20 ; Heb.
vii. 2.
GIVES HIS PEOPLE PEACE.
John xiv. 27 ; John xvi. 33 ; Phil. i. 2 ;
Gal. V. 22 ; Eph. ii. 15 ; Col. i. 2 ; Col.
iii. 15 ; Acts x. 36 ; Gal. i. 3 ; Rom. v.
1 ; Rom. xiv. 17 ; Eph. vi. 15 ; i Thes.
*. I ■ Rev. i. 4 ; Rom, i. 7 ; Eph. i. 2 ;
Rom. viii. 6 ; Rom. x. 15 ; Phil. iv. 7 ;
2 Tim. i. 2 < I Cor. i. 3 ; 2 Cor. i. 2 ;
Rom. XV. 13 ; i Cor. vii. 15 ; i Cor. xiv.
33 ; 2 John iii.
CHRIST THE PERFECT MINIS-
TER.
2 Cor. VI. 4-10.
In much patience. Heb. xii. 3.
In afflictions. Isa. Ixiii. g.
In necessities. Lul<;e ix. 58.
In distresses, Isa. liii. 34.
In stripes. Mark xv. 15.
In imprisonmenis. Isa. liii. 8.
In tumults. Luke iv. 28, 29.
In labours, John xvii. 4.
In watchings. Luke vi. 12.
By fastings. Matt. iv. 2.
By purity. Heb. vii. 26.
By knowledge. Jno. ii. 24, 25.
By longsuffering. i Pet. ii. 23.
By kindness. Titus iii. 4.
By the Holy Ghost. Acts x, 38.
By love unfeigned. John xv. 13.
By the Word of Truth, John ix. 45.
By the power of God. Luke iv. 14.
By armour. Isa. liv. 17.
By honour. Luke xix, 35, 38.
By dishonour. Mark xv, 19.
By evil report and good. John x. 19, 21.
As a deceiver. John vii. 12.
As yet true. John xiv. 6.
As unknown — yet well known. John
i. 26-31.
As dying — behold he lives. Rev. i. 18.
As chastened — not killed. Isa. liii. v.
As sorrowful yet rejoicing. Heb, xii. 2.
As poor — making rich. 2 Cor. viii. 9.
As having nothing. Phil. ii. 6, 7.
As possessing all. Matt, xxviii.- 18.
AT HIS FEET.
For healing. Matt. xv. 30.
For life. Mark v. 22.
For cleansing. Mark vii. 25.
For pardon. Luke vii. 38.
For protection and redemption.
Ruth iii. 8.
For rest. Luke viii. 35.
For teaching. Deut. xxxiii. 3 ; Luke
X. 39.
For comfort. John xi. 32.
For blessing, i Sam. xxv. 27, 41, 42,
In worship. Luke xvii. 16; Rev.i.17.
IN HIS BOSOM.
The lambs. Isaiah xl. 11.
John, (the gentle childlike spirit.)
John xiii. 25 ; Song ii. 6.
IN HIS HAND.
All His saints. Deut. xxxiii, 3.
The seven stars. Rev. i. 16.
The sheep. John x. 28.
Thee. Isaiah Ii. 16.
ON HIS SHOULDERS.
The lost sheep. Luke xv. 5 ; Exodus
xxviii. 12 ; Isaiah ix. 6.
148
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
ON HIS HEART.
. Exodus xxviii. 29, 30 ; Deut.xxxiii.27.
ON HIS FOREHEAD.
Exodus xxviii. 38; Jer. xxix. 11;
Psalm xl. 17.
IN HIS ARMS.
Deut. xxxiii; Mark x. 15, 16.
UNDER HIS WINGS.
Psalm xci. 4.
NEAR THE KING'S PERSON.
They saw the King's face. Jer. lii.25.
THE ROCK.
(Christ. I Cor. x. 4.)
Gave forth —
Water (Ex. xvii. 6.) — Mesas (the law)
smote the Rock (Christ), and there
flowed forth the water of life. Psa.
xxviii. 15 ; Num. xx. 8.
The Rock once smitten in answer to
the law's demands, now yields abundantly
the water of life to them that ask it. Jno.
iv. 10-14; Matt, vii, 7; Rom. v. 10;
Rom. X. 13 ; Psa. Ixxviii. 16. .
FiRi!,. (Judges vi. 21) — The Rock itself
supplied the fire that consumed the sacri-
fice. Gal. i. 4 ; Gal. ii. 20 ; Titus ii. 14 ;
Jno, x. 17, 18.
Oil (Deu. xxxii. 13 ; Job xxix. 6.) It
s like the precious ointment upon the
head, that ran down upon the beard, even
Aaron's beard, etc, Psa. cxxxiii, 2 ; see
Ex. XXX. 25-31 ; Isa. Ixi. i; Luke iv. 18,
19 ; John xvii. 19.
Honey. — The perfection of earth's
sweetness. Judges xiv. 18 j Ps. xix. 10 ;
Eze. iii. 3.
But it must not be mixed with the
offering of the Lord. Lev. ii. 11, Christ
is the perfection of God's sweetness.
A sweet smelling savor. Eph. v. 2 ;
Lev. i. 9; Col. i, 19.
The conclusion. — "Their Rock is not
our Rock, even our enemies themselves
being judges." Deu. xxxii. 31.
CHRIST— THE ROCK.
1. Salvation.^— 2 Sam. xxii. 47 ; Jon.
ii 9 ; Acts iv, II, 12.
2. Foundation. — Matt. vii. 24, 25 ; i
Cor. iii. 11 ; Is. xxviii. 16; Lph. ii. 19,
20 ; I Pet. ii- 1-8.
3. Refuge. — Ps. xciv. 22 ; Ps. Ixii
1-8 ; Ps. xxvii. 1-5.
4. Shelter. — Ps, Ixi, 2, 3; Job xxiv.
8 ; Ps. Ixxiii. 26 (margin); Prov. xviii. 10
5. Satisfying. — Ex. xvii. 6 ; 1 Cor.
X. 4 ; Ps, xxxvi. 7, 8 ; Ps. Ixxxi, 13-16 ;
John iv. 14.
6. Strength. — Ps, xxxi. 2, 3 ; Is.
xxvi. 4, (margin) ; Ps. xXviii. 7, 8.
7. Rest. — Is. xxxii. 2; Matt. ii. 28-
30; Heb.iv. 3. S. R. B.
THE GOOD SHEPHERD.
A meditation and example.
Example. — John x. 11, 15.
Precept. — i John iii. 16.
Illustration. — 2 Cor. xii. 15 ; Rom.
xvi. 4.
Reward. — John x. 17 ; Matt. x. 39..
Example. — He gathers the lambs.
Isaiah xl.ii.
Precept. — Psalm 1. 5.
Illustration. — Heb. x. 25.
Reward. — Matt, xviii. 20.
Example. — He feedetn the flock.
Isaiah xi. 11.
Precept. — i Peter v. 2;
Illustration. — i Cor. iii. 2.
Reward. — i Peter v. 4.
Example. — He carries them in His
bosom. Isaiah xl. 11.
Precept. — Eph. vi. 18.
Illustration. — Phil. i. 7.
Reward. — Matt. vi. 4, 6.
Example. — He layeth it on His
shoulders.
Precept. — Gal. vi. 2.
Illustration. — Col. vi. 3.
Reward. — Col. iv. 12.
Example. — He goeth after that which
was lost.
Precept. — Mark xvi. 15.
Illustration. — Mark xvi. 20.
Reward. — Isaiah Iv. 11.
Example. — He gently leads the
burdened ones. Isaiah xl. 11.
Precept. — i Thess. v. 15.
Illustration. — Genesis xxxiii. 13, 14 ; 1
Thess. ii. 7.
Reward.- i Thess. ii. 19, 20.
Leaving us an example. Lovestthou
Me?
JESUS CHRIST.
1. Jesus Christ the Son of God. Acts
viii. 37-
2. Jesus Christ, the same yesterday,
to-day, and forever. Heb. xiii 8.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGb.
149
3. Jesus Christ crucified, i Cor. ii. 2.
4. Jesus Christ in you. 2 Cor. xiii. 5.
5. Jesus Christ the righteous, i John
ii. I.
6. Jesus Christ the chief comer-stone.
li!ph. ii. 20.
7. Jesus Christ, Lord to the glory of
God. Phil. ii. 11.
JESUS ONLY.
The light of heaven — is the face of
Jesus.
The joy of heaven — is the presence of
Jesus.
The melody of heaven — is the name of
Jesus.
The harmony of heaven— is the praise
of Jesus.
The theme of heaven — is the work of
Jesus.
The employment of heaven— is the
service of Jesus.
The fulness of heaven — is Jesus
Himself.
JESUS CHRIST.
His Divinity — Col. ii. 9; i Tim. iii. 16;
John i. I, 14, 18; Col. i. 15-19; i Cor.
XV. 47; Heb. i. 2, 3; i Cor. ii. 8; John
i- 3; X. 30, 36; xiv. 8, 9, 10, 13, 14;
Phil. ii. 2, 6, 10, II; Isaiah xlv. 21-23.
His Incarnation — Heb. ii. 16; Gal. iv.
4, 5; Isaiah vii. 14; ix. 6; Heb. ix, 26;
Matt. i. 18.
His Life as Son of Abraham — Gospel
of Matthew.
His Life as perfect Servant and Sacri-
fice— Gospel of Mark.
His Life as Son of Man — Gospel of
Luke.
His Life as Son of God — Gospel 'of
John.
His Baptism — Luke iii. 21, 22.
His Temptation — Lake iv. i. 2; Mark
i. 12, 13; Heb. iv. 15.
His Death — Heb. ix. 15.
His Resurrection — i Peter iii. 18.
His Ascension- Acts i. 9 ; Luke xxiv. 51.
His Mediation — i Tim. ii. 5 ; Heb.
ix. 24 ; vii. 25 ; Rom. viii. 34 ; I John
ii. I.
His Coming Again — Acts 1. 11 ; Mark
xiv. 62 ; I Thess. iv. 16, 17 ; Mark xiii.
25, 26; Matt. xxiv. 30; Mark viii. 38;
2 Thess. i. 7, 8, 10 ; Rev. xxii. 20.
THE EPISTLE TO THE
PHILIPPL\NS.
You have the gospel mind, and Christ
the life. Chap. i.
You have the humble mind, and
Christ the pattern. Chap. ii.
You have the earnest mind, and Christ
the object. Chap. iii.
You have the peaceful mind, and
Christ the strength. Chap. iv.
THE MAN CHRIST JESUS.
Behold the Man. John xix. 5.
The Man Christ Jesus, i Tim. ii. 5.
The Preferred Man. John i. 30.
The Discerning Man. John iv. 29.
The Gracious Man. John vii. 46.
The Friendly Man. Luke xv. 2.
The Faultless Man. Matt. iii. 17;
Luke xxiii, 22.
The God Man. John xix. 7 ; Mark
XV. 39.
The Rejected Man. Luke xix. 14 ;
John xviii. 40.
The Risen Man. Acts ii. 32 ; i Cor.
XV. 21.
The Glorified Man. Acts vii. 56;
Rev. i. 13.
The Heavenly Man. Heb. x. 12; i
Cor. XV. 47.
The Coming Man. Matt. xvi. 27.
Wilt thou go with this Man ? Geu.
xxiv. 58.
CHRIST FOR US, TO US, AND
IN US.
There are three ways in which we are
benefited by Christ ; three bonds be-
tween us and Him.
1. He '\sfor us. The Holy One bears
the sins of the unholy ; the Just One
dies for the unjust. Thus the cross of
Christ, or rather Christ upon the cross,
is our peace. His body was broken
for us.
2. He is given to us. He who gave
Himself for us, gives Himself to us ;
and so He Himself and all that He is
and has becomes ours. It is this gift of
Himself to us that we are reminded of
in the supper : " He took bread, and
gave it, saying, Take, eat."
3. He dwells in us. He in us, and
we in Him ; He our temple, we His !
"Christ in you the hope of Glory."
••We will come unto him, and make
OUT abode with him." (John xiv. 2^.)
150
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
HOURLY THOUGHTS OF JESUS.
1. Jesus. Matt. i. 21,
2. Our Lord. 2 Thess. ii. 16.
3. Christ our life. Col. iii. 4.
4. He is our Peace. Eph. ii. 14.
5. Christ hath made us free. Gal. v, i.
6. For ye serve the Lord Christ.
Col. iii. 24.
7. Ncnv ye are the body of Christ
I Cor. xii. 27.
8. He vias nianifested to take away
^ur sins, i John iii. 5.
9. And your life is hid with Christ in
God. Col. iii. 3.
ID. I live, yet not I, but Christ Irveth
•« me. Gal. ii. 20.
.11. It pleased the Father that in Him
should all fulness dwell. Col. i. 19.
12. Christ, in whom are hid all the
treasures of wisdom, and knowledge.
Col. ii. 3.
How precious also are Thy thoughts
unto me, O God ! Ho7v great is the sum
of them. Psalm cxxxix. 17.
'NEVER MAN SPAKE LIKE
THIS MAN.'
Jesus said, I am the resurrection and
the life. John xi. 25.
Jesus said, Ye cannot serve God and
mammon. Matt. vi. 24.
Jesus said, Take no thought for the
morrow. Matt. vi. 34.
Jesus said, Blessed are the poor in spirit.
Matt. V. 3.
Jesus said. He that loveth his life shall
lose it. John xii. 25.
Jesus said. Be of good cheer : it is I ;
be not afraid. Mark vi. 50.
Jesus said, Come unto Me, I will give
you rest. Matt. xi. 28.
Jesus said, I am among you as He that
serveth. Luke xxii. 27.
Jesus said, The Father loveth the Son.
John iii. 35.
Jesus said, I have glorified Thee on the
earth. John xvii. 4.
Jesus said. Let your loins be girded
about. Luke xii. 35.
Jesus said, The Son abideth ever. John
vii. 35.
Jesus said. Take heed what ye hear.
Mark iv. 24.
Jesus said. Watch ye and pray, Mark
xiv. 38.
Jesus said. Let not your heart be
troubled. John xiv. i.
Jesus said, I go to prepare a place for
you. John xiv. 2.
Jesus said, They are not of the world.
John xvii. 16.
Jesus said. Why are ye fearful ? O ye
of Httle faith. Matt. viii. 26.
Jesus said, In your patience possess
ye your souls. Luke xxi. 19.
Jesus said, I receive not honor from
men. John v. 41.
Jesus said, Without Me ye can do
nothing. John xv, 5.
Jesus said. My peace I give unto you.
John xiv. 27.
Jesus said, Lo, I am with you alway.
Matt, xxviii. 20.
Jesus said, He that gathereth not with
Me, scattereth. Luke xi. 23.
Jesus said, Why do thoughts arise in
your hearts ? Luke xxiv. 38.
Jesus said, He that seeth Me seetb
Him that sent Me. John xii. 45.
Jesus said, If any man serve Me, let
him follow Me. John xii. 26.
Jesus said. It is written. Luke iv. 8.
Jesus said. Go thy way ; thy faith hath
made thee whole. Mark x. 52.
Jesus said, Sufficient unto the day is
the evil thereof. Matt. vi. 34.
Jesus said, Let the dead bury their
dead. Matt. viii. 22.
JESUS HIMSELF.
Himself took our infirmities, and bare
our sicknesses. Matt. viii. 17.
He saved others, himself he cannot
save. Matt, xxvii. 42.
Jesus, immediately knowing in himself
that virtue [power] had gone out of him,
Mark v. 30.
To receive for himself a kingdom, and
to return, Luke xix. 12.
Saying that he himself is Christ a king.
Luke xxiii. 2.
He expounded unto them in all the
scriptures, the things concerning himself.
Luke xxiv. 27.
Jesus did not commit himself imto them.
John ii. 24.
Making himself equal with God. John
V. 18.
The Son can do nothing of himself, but
what he seeth the Father do. John v. 19.
So hath he given to the Son to have
life in himself. John v. 26.
Jesus knew in himself that the disciples
murmured at it. John vi. 61.
Jesus therefore, again groaning in him-
self, Cometh to the grave. John xi. 38.
He took a towel, and girded himself.
John xiii. 4.
God shall also glorify him in himself.
John xiii. 32.
NOTES FOR LIBLE READINGS.
5^
He made himself the Son of God
John xix. 7,
To whom also he shewed himself alive
after his passion. Acts i. 3.
Even Christ pleased, not himself. Rom.
XV. 3.
Who gave himself for our sins. Gal.
i. 4.
Who loved me, and gave himself for
me- Gal, ii. 20.
Christ also hath loved us, and hath
given himself for us. Eph. v 2.
Christ also loved the Church, and gave
himself for it. Eph. v. 25.
Who gave himself a ransom for all.
I Tun. ii. 6.
Who gave himself for us, that he might
redeem us from all iniquity. Tit. ii. 14.
To make in himself of twain one new
man. Eph. ii. 15.
That he might present it to himself.
Eph. V. 27.
He made himself of no reputation.
Phil. ii. 7.
He humbled "'•■mself. Phil. ii. 8.
He is able -to subdue all things
unto himself, fml. iii. 21.
He can not deny himself. 2 Tim. ii. 13.
And purify unto himself a peculiar peo-
ple. Tit. ii. 14.
When he had by himself purged our
sins. Heb. i. 3.
Christ glorified not himself to be made
an high priest. Heb, v. 5.
This he did once, when he offered up
himself, Heb. vii. 27,
Who through the eternal Spirit offered
himself. Heb. ix. 14.
Nor yet that he should offer himself
often. Heb. ix. 25.
To put away sin by the sacrifice of
himself, Heb, ix. 26,
Endured such contradiction of sinners
against himself, Heb. xii. 3.
Who his own self bare our sins in his
own body on the tree, i Pet. ii. 24.
HIMSELF.
1. He saved others, himself he can-
not save, (Matt, xxvii, 42.) Such was
the taunt of the chief priests and scribes
and elders when the Son of God was
dying between two thieves, and without
knowing it, they uttered a profound
truth. Gal. iii. 21 ; John xii. 24 ; John
It. 18 ; Matt, xxvi. 53.
2. After these things Jesus showed
HIMSELF again to the disciples at the sea
of Tiberias. John xxi. i.
3. To whom also he showed himself
alive after his passion, by many infallible
proofs, being seen of them forty days>
and speaking of the things pertaining to
the kingdom. Acts i. 3.
4. Beginning at Moses, and all the
prophets, he expounded unto them in all
the scriptures the things concerning
HIMSELF, and on the evening of the
same day of His resurrection. He an-
nounced to the assembled disciples, "that
all things must be fulfilled, which were
written in the law of Moses, and in the
prophets, and in the psalms, concerning
ME." Luke xxiv. 27, 44.
5. Who gave himself for our sins,
that He might deliver us from this pre-
sent evil world. Gal. i. 4.
6. Who loved me, and gave himself
for me. Gal, ii. 20.
7. When he had by himself purged
our sins, sat down on the right hand o>
the Majesty on high. ^Heb. 1. 3.
8. Made himself of no reputation,
[or rather, emptied Himself] and hum-
bled Himself. Phil. ii. 7, 8.
9. Who gave himself for us, that he
might redeem us from all iniquity, and
purify unto Himself a peculiar people,
zealous of good works. ^ Tit. ii. 14.
10. The Lord himself shall descend
from heaven with a shout, i Thes. iv.
16. J. H. Brookes.
77-
CHRIST OUR SALVATION.
The God of salvation. Chron. xvi. 35.
The Captain of salvation. Heb. ii. 10.
The Author of salvation. Heb. v. 9.
The Rock of salvation. Deut. xxxii. 15.
The Tower of salvation. 2 Sam. xxii.51.
The Horn of salvation. Luke i. 69.
The Way of salvation. Acts xvi. 17.
The Heirs of salvation. Heb. i. 14,
The Voice of salvation. Ps. cxviii. 15.
The Word of salvation. Acts xiii. 26.
The Gospel of salvation. Eph. i. 13.
The Hope of salvation, i Thes. v. 8
The Knowledge of salvation, Luke i.
The Day of salvation. Isa. xHx. 8.
The Wells of salvation. Isa. xii. 3.
The Cup of salvation. Ps, cxvi. 13.
The Token of salvation. Phil. i. 28.
The Garments of salvation. Isa. Ixi.io.
The Helmet of salvation. Isa. Ix. 17.
The Chariots of salvation. Hab. iii.8.
152
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE BENEFITS OF CHRIST'S
DEATH.
Heb. ii. 14 ; Heb. ix. 14 ; Heb, ix. 26;
• Gal. iii. 13 ; Rev. v. 9 ; Heb. ii. 17 ;
Acts xiv. 39 ; I Cor. vi. 20 ; Rom. v. 19 ;
Isa. liii. 6 ; Gal. v. 4-22 ; Rom. v. ii ;
I Pet. iii. 18 ; Luke xxii. 20 ; Titus ix,
29 ; 2 Cor. V. 18-21 ; 2 Tim. i. .10.
■ CHRIST FOR HIS OWN.
He gave Himself for trieir sins. Gal.
i 4-
He quickens them by His voice. Jno.
V. 25.
He seals them by His Spirit. Eph,i.i3.
He feeds them with His flesh and
blood. John vi. 56, 57.
He cleanses them by His word. John
xiii. 5 Eph. V. 26.
He maintains them by His intercession.
Rom. viii, 34 ; Heb. vii. 25 ; i Jno. ii. i.
He takes them individually to Him-
self. Acts vii. 59 ; Phil. i. 23.
He watches over their ashes. John vi.
39, 40.
He will raise them by His power,
[ohn vi. 39, 40 ; i Cor. xv. 52 j i Thes,
iv. 16.
He will come to meet them in the air.
I Thes. iv. 17.
He will conform them to His image.
Phil. iii. 21 ; I John iii. 2.
He will associate them with Himself
in His everlasting kingdom. John xiv,
3 ; xviii. 24.
Thus the activities of Christ on behalf
of His people, take in, in their range, the
past, the present, and the future. They
stretch, like a golden line, from everlast-
ing to everlasting. Well may it be said,
*' Happy is the people that is in such a
case ; yea, happy is the people whose
God is the I.,ord."
CHRIST OUR LIFE.
I am come that they might have life,
and that they might have it more abun-
dantly. John X. 10,
I am the way, the truth and the life.
John X. 6.
I am the resurrection and the life : he
that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live. John xi. 25.
I give unto them eternal life; and they
shall never perish, neither shall any pluck
them out of my hand. John x. 28.
Because I live, ye shall live also. John
xiv. 19.
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless
I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.
Gal. ii. 20.
Ye are dead, and your life is hid with
Christ in God. Col. iii. 3.
When Christ, who is our life shall ap-
pear, then shall ye also appear with him
in glory. Col. iii. 4.
JESUS THE LIGHT.
Ln Him was life, and the life was the
light of men. John i. 4.
That was the true light which lighteth
every man that cometh into the world.
John 1.9,
I am the light of the world. Johnviii.12.
Yet a little while is the light with you,
&c. John xii. 35.
I am come a light into the world that
whosoever believeth on me should not
abide in darkness. John xii. 46.
A light to lighten the Gentiles and the
glory of my people Israel. Luke ii. 32.
There shall come a star out of Jacob,
&c. Num. xxiv. 17.
I am the bright and morning star.
Rev. xxii. 16.
The day-star shall arise in your hearts.
2 Peter i. 19.
The day-spring from on high hath
visited us. Luke i. 78.
But unto you. which fear My name
shall the sun of righteousness arise with
healing in his wings. Mai. iv. 2.
The people that walked in darkness
have seen a great light, &c. Isaiah ix. 2.
THEIR FACE SHONE.
Moses. Exodus xxxiv. 29, 35.
Stephen. Acts vi. 15.
Jesus. ]Matt. xvii. 2 ; Luke ix. 28
Rev. i. 16.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
153
HIS PEOPLE.— LIGHTS.— (Lesser ?)
Ye are the light of the world. Matt.
•V. 14, 16.
Take heed, as unto a light that shineth
in a dark place. 2 Peter i. 19.
Ye are all the children of light and
the children of the day. i Thess. v. 5.
They shall be mine saith the Lord of
Hosts in that day when I make .up my
jewels. Mai. iii. 17.
They that be wise shall shine as the
brightness of the firmament, and they
that turn many to righteousness as the
stars for ever and ever. Dan. xii, 3.
. . . Among whom ye shine as
lights in the world. Phil. ii. 15.
The path of the just is as the shining
.light that shineth more and more unto
the perfect day. Prov. iv. 18.
I will give thee . . for a light of the
Gentiles. Isa. xlii. 6.
The children of light, (acknowledged
•as such. ) Luke xvi. 8.
Walk as children of light. Eph. v 8.
THE "ME'S" OF JESUS.
Without Me ye can do nothing.
John XV. 5.
Look unto Me. — Isaiah xlv. 22 ; Num.
3cxi. 8; connect with John iii. 14-16;
2,ech. xii. 10 ; Heb. xii. 2.
Come unto Me. — John i. 35-39. What
a blessed visit ! Jesus invites every one
to come and see Him.
Him that cometh to Me I will in no
rjvise cast out. John vi. 37 ; Matt, xi.28;
Isaiah i. 18: Iv. 1-3-; John vii. 37 ; Rev.
xxii. 17.
Even backsliders are invited. Isaiah
xxxi. 6; xliv. 22 ; Jer. iii. 12 ; Hosea vi.
I ; Rev. ii. 5.
Is that true of Me ? John v. 40.
Lovest thou Me ? John xxi. 17. Can
we answer as Peter did ?
Marks of love to Jesus. — ^John xiv. 15;
ocv. 12 ; I John iii. 14; (Psalm cxix, 63 ;
2 Cor. vi. 14-17) ; I John iii. 8-10 ; iii. 3;
■V. 4 ; iv. 13 ; Rom. viii. 14-16 ; i John
•V. 10 (first clause).
Abide in Me. — ^John xv. 1-7, 10; i
John iii. 24; Col. ii. 6, 7 ; Eph. iv. 15,
16; Col. ii. 20.
Learn of Me. — Matt, xi.29; John xiii.
13-15. Go and do thou likewise. — Luke
X. 37; xiv. 21-23; Phil. ii. 5-8 ; 1 Peter
ii. 21-24.
Song. — I gave My life for thee.
Folljyw Me. — Matt. iv. 19 ; viii. 21,22,
ix. 9 ; xix, 21. Follow thou Me. — ^John
xxi. 22; Mark xvi. 15, 16; Matt. xxi. 28.
Peter followed afar off. — Matt. xxvi. 58,
69-75 '' Luke ix. 61, 62, 63 ; John viii. 12.
Watch with Me. — Matt. xxvi. 40, 41 ,
Mark xiii. 33-37 (note verse 37) ; Eph.
vi. 18 ; I Peter iv. 7 ; v. 8. Blessed is he
that watcheth. — Rev. xvi. 15.
Be with Me. — John xiv. 1-3 ; xii. 26
xvii. 24; I Th. V. 9-1 1. Ever with tjie
Lord. — I Th. iv. 13-17.
Believeth on Me. — John vi. 35, 40, 4-:
xi. 25, 26; xii. 46; xiv. 12; iii. 18, 30,
i. 12.
How are we to believe ? Rom. x. 10.
Warning to unbelievers. John viii. 24.
3y faith these precious Me's of Jesus
may be ours (Heb. vi. 12), then we can
say with Paul : I can do all things
through Christ which strengtheneth me,
Phil. iv. 13.
In Me is thy help, saith the Lord.
Hosea xiii. 9.
Come to Me. — Matt, xi, 28. Learn
of Me. — Matt. xi. 29. Abide in Me. —
John XV. 4. Lovest thou Me ? — John
xxi. 17. Follow thou Me. — ^John xxi. 22.
Watch with Me. — Matt. xxvi. 40. Be
with Me. — John xvii. 24.
"I."
1 . I am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer,
Isaiah Ix. 16.
2. I am the Way, the Truth, and the
Life. John xiv. 6.
3. I am the Good Shepherd. John
X. 14.
4. I am the Door. John x. 9.
5. I am the True Vine. John xv. i
6. I am the Light of the World.
John viii. 12.
7. I am the Bread of Life. John vi. 33
154
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
"COME UNTO ME'S," OF JESUS.
Jesus saith come unto Me —
For pardon. Eph. i. 5-7.
For comfort. Isaiah li. 2-3.
For health. Matt, viii. 16-17.
For strength. Phil. iv. 13.
For holiness. John xv. 4-5.
For peace. John xiv. 27.
For joy.. John xv. 10, 11.
For rest. Matt. xi. 28.
For Inppiness. Prov. xiii. 17, 18.
For eternal life. John vi. 47.
In Jesus, dwelleth the fulness of God.
He is the chiefest among ten thousand.
And ye are complete in Him.
Make Him, then, your all in all.
THE WORDS OF JESUS.
Jesus said, if any man serve Me let him
follow Me. John xii. 26.
Follow Me. Mark viii. 34.
Follow that which is good, i Thess.
V. 15.
Follow righteousness, i Tim. vi. ii.
Follow peace with all men. Hebrews
xii. 14.
Follow after charity, i Cor. xiv. i.
Follow His steps, i Peter ii. 21.
Promises to those who follow Jesus : —
He that followeth Me shall not walk in
darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John viii. 12.
Where I am, there shall My servant be.
John xii. 26.
JUST LIKE JESUS, TO
Love. — Greater love hath no man than
this, that a man lay down his life. John
XV.
Pity. — In His love and in His pity He
redeemed them. Isaiah Ixiii. 9.
Sympathize. — In all their affliction He
was afflicted. Isaiah Ixiii. 9.
Forgive. — I say unto you, all sins
shall be forgiven. Mark ix. 27.
Help. — ^Jesus took him by the hand,
and lifted him up. Mark ix. 27.
Comfort. — I will not leave you com-
fortless : I will come unto you. John
xiv. 18.
Guide. — He will guide you into all
truth. John xvi. 13.
Deliver. -^He hath sent me to preach
deliverance to the captives. Luke iv. 18.
Reward. — Where I am there ye may
be also. John xiv. 3.
Who was made in the likeness of men,
and became obedient unto death, for our
salvation.
LOOK TO JESUS, WHEN
Teippted. —He Himself suffered, being
tempted. Heb. ii. 18.
Afflicted. — In all their affliction He was
afflicted. Isaiah Ixiii. 9.
Troubled. — Come unto Me, and I will
give you rest. Matt., xi. 28.
Sick. — Himself took our infirmities and
bare our sicknesses. Matt. viii. 17.
In Health. — The health of my counte-
nance, and my God. Psalm xlii. 11.
Rich, — Riches and honour come of
Thee, i Chron. xxix. 12.
Poor. — Who for our sakes became poor.
2 Cor. viii. 9,
Oppressed. — He was oppressed and He
was afflicted, Isaiah liii. 7.
Forsaken. — I will never leave thee^
nor forsake thee. Heb. xiii. 5.
Dying. — Lord Jesus, receive my spirit*
Acts vii. 59.
Always, under all circumstances.
LOOK TO JESUS.
As the open fountain — Look, wash>
and be clean. Zech. xiii. i.
As the Antitype of the brazen serpent
— Look and live. John iii. 14.
As the light of the world — Look and
be enlightened. John viii. 12.
As the great Physician — Look and be
healed. John v. 6.
As the bread of life — Look and par-
take. John vi. 35.
As the way to heaven — ^Look and walk
in Him. John xiv. 6.
As the sure foundation — Look andi
build. Isa. xxviii. 16.
As the ark — Look and enter. Gen.
vii. I.
As the friend of sinners— Look and
trust. Matt. xii. 19.
As the only Saviour — Look for salva-
tion. Acts iv, 12.
As the author and finisher of our faitb
— Look for evermore. Pleb. xii. 2,
Arranged by J, H. E.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
155
BIBLE INVITATIONS.
[Arrajtged Alphabetically.)
Ask of Me. Ps. ii. 8.
Abide in Isle. John xv. 4.
Believe Me. John xiv. 1 1 .
Call upon Me. Jer. xxxiii. 3.
Cleave unto Me. Jer. xiii. ii.
Cry unto Me. Jer. xi. 11.
Come unto Me. Matt. xi. 28.
Find Me. Jer. xxix. 13.
Follow Me. Matt. iv. 19.
Glorify Me. Ps. 1. 15.
Hearken to iSle. Mark vii. 14.
Know Me. Jer. xxiv. 7.
Learn of Me. Matt. xi. 29.
Listen unto Me. Isa. xlix. i.
Look unto Me. Isa. xlv. 22.
Love Me. John xiv. 15.
Pray unto Me. Jer. xxix. 12.
Receive Me. Luke ix. 48.
Rejoice with Me. Luke xv. 6.
Return unto Me. Jer. xxiv. 7.
Seek Me. Jer. xxix. 13.
Search for Me. Jer. xxix. 13.
Trust in Me. Jer. xlix. 11.
THE LORD'S HANDS FOR HIS
PEOPLE.
Pierced for their sin. Psa. xxii. 16.
Graven with their names. Isaiah xlix.
16.
Healing their infirmities. . Mark i. 41.
Filled for their needs. Ex. xxviii. 14.
Opened for their supply. Psalm cxlv.
16.
Uplifted for their blessing. Luke xxiv.
5-
Strong for their defence. Psalm
cxxxviii. 7.
Sustaining their weariness. Song ii. 6.
Cunning for their fashioning. Song
vii. I ; Prov. ix. 8.
Re-assuring for their fears. Rev. i. 19.
Hiding for their preparation. Isaiah
xlix. 2.
Power- giving for their service, i Kings
xviii. 15. .
IV
"I WILLS" OF CHRIST.
I will make you fishers of men. Matt.
. 19.
I will : be thou clean. Matt. viii. 3 ;
Mark i. 41 ; Luke v. 13-21.
I will come and heal him. Matt. viii. 7.
Him will I confess. Luke xii. 8 ;
Matt. X. 32.
I will give you rest. Matt. xi. 28.
Not as I will but as tftou wilt. Matt.
xxxvi. 32-39.
16.
John
Not what I will, &c. Mark xiv. 36.
I will in no wise cast out. I will give
my flesh. I will raise him up. John vi.
37. 5i> 53, 54.
I will come again. John xiv. 3.
I will pray the Father. John xiv.
I will not leave you comfortless,
xiv. 18.
Whom I will send. John xv. 21-26.
I will that they be with me. John
xvii. 24.
If I will that he tarry. John xxi. 22.
I will make thee ruler over many
things. Matt. xxv. 21-23.
I will give you a mouth. Luke xxi. 15.
Whatsoever ye ask that will I do. Joha
xiv. 13.
I if I be lifted up will draw all men.
John xii. 32.
I will see. . I will send. I will pray^
John xvi. 7, 22, 26.
THE "I AM'S" OF CHRIST.
I am a sinfiil man, O Lord. Luke v. 8,
I a?n thai I ain. Ex. iii. 14.
I am counted with them that go down
into the pit. Psalm Ixxxviii. 4.
I am the bread of life. John vi. 35.
I am undone. Isaiah vi. 5.
I am the light of the world. John viii. 12.
I am a stranger with thee, and a
sojourner. Psalm xxxix. 12.
I am the door. John x. 9.
I am weary. Psalm xi. 6.
I am the Good Shepherd. John x. 11.
I am carnal, sold under sin. Rom. vii.
14.
I am the resurrection and the life. John
xi. 25.
I am as a man that hath no strength.
Psalm Ixxxviii. 4.
lam the way, the trtith, and the life ^
John xiv. 6.
I am weak. Psalm vi. 2.
I am the true vine. John xv. i.
I am but a little child, i Kings iii. 7.
I am meek and lowly of heart. Matt,
xi. 29.
I am afraid. Job xxiii. 15.
I am Alpha and Omega. Rev. i. 8.
I am the Lord's. Isaiah xliv. 5.
/ am He that liveth, and was dead.
Rev. i. 18.
I am Thy servant. Psalm cxvi. 16.
/ am He which searcheth the reins and
the heart. Rev. ii. 23.
I am my beloved's. Cant. vii. 10.
/ avi the root and offspring of David,
and the bright and morning star. Rev
xxii. 16.
*5C>
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
JEHOVAPI JIREH.— PROVIDER.
(Gen. xxii. 14.)
I am by nature.
" Wretched and miserable and poor
%iid blind and naked." Rev. in. 17.
But Jesus Christ is : —
My Saviour, 2 Pet. iii. 18.
My Sacrifice, Heb, ix. 14.
My Peace, Eph. ii. 14.
My Passover, i Cor. v. 7.
My Resurrection, John i. 25.
My Life, i John v. 11, i2.'
My Light, John i. 9.
My Truth, John xiv. 6.
My Wisdom, i Cor. i. 30.
My Righteousness, Phil, iii, 9.
My Sanctification, i Cor. i. 30,
My Meat, John vi. 35.
My Drink, John vii. 37.
My Hope, i Tim. i. i.
My Redemption, i Cor. i, 30.
My All, Col. iii. 2.
JESUS "SAT DOWN" AS
Sin purger, Heb. i. 3.
High Priest, Heb. viii. i.
Priest and sacrifice, Heb. x. 12.
Author and finisher of faith, Heb. xii. 2.
"NO OTHER NAME."
Hymn—*' All hail the power of Jesus'
name."
Thou shalt call his name Jesus, Matt.
'. 21 ; Isa. ix. 6 ; Isa. vii. 14.
Must be saved by Him or perish,
Acts iv. 12.
May be saved, Acts x. 43.
Jesus after his resurrection, Luke xxiv.
27, 44.
Mediator, i Tim. ii. 5,6.
God with us, Matt. i. 23.
A prince and a Saviour, Acts v. 31.
Humiliation and exaltation, Phil. ii.
"6-11.
"He that believeth," John iii. 18;
John vi. 40, 47.
Peter teaching, Acts ii. 38.
Jesus' words, Luke xxiv. 46, 47.
Work in His name, Col. iii. 17.
Peter again. Acts iii. 6.
Full consecration of all to His name,
Acts XV. 26.
The right to become the sons of God,
John i. 12 ; xii. 20.
What we may do, Mark ix. 41.
Glory and doiranion, Rev. i. 5, 6.
WMiy saints are in heaven, Rev. vii. 14.
Are you a believer? Will you have
cxeflasting life ? W^here will you spend
ttemity? "What think ye of Christ?"
John iii. 16. " For God so loved the
world, that he gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth on him
should not perish, but have everlasting
life."
Hymn, "O! for a thousand tongues
to sing." W. M. G.
GRACE.
1. Its source, John i. 14-17 ; Rom. v.
15 ; I Cor. i. 3, 4.
2. All grace comes from God, i Peter
v. 10.
3. To whom does he offer grace. Matt,
xxi. 31 ; Hosea xiii. 9 ; John viii. 4-12.
4. Not of works, Eph. ii. 8, 9 ; 2 Tim
i. 9 ; Rom. xi. 6.
5. It bringeth salvation, Titus ii.
11-14.
6. We are justified freely by his grace,
Titus iii. 7 ; Rom. iii. 24.
7. Sin reigned unto death, but grace
unto life eternal, Rom. v. 20, 21 ; vi. i, 2,
8. We are not under law, but under
grace, Rom. vi. 14, 15.
9. The difference between the law and
grace, Deut. xxi. 18, Lukexv. 12-24.
10. How are we to get it? Heb. iv. 16.
11. His grace sufficient at all times,
2 Cor. ix. 8 ; xii. 9.
12. Who have it more freely ? Eph.
vi. 24 ; James iv. 6.
13. We are to sing with grace in our
hearts, Col. v. 16.
14. What is falling from grace ? Gal.
V. 1-5.
15. Differences between government
and grace.
(No texts ; but retributive dealings widi
Lot, Jacob, David, brought out, as con-
trasted with the Prodigal Son, and the
surpassing love revealed in the Gospel.)
16. Last words of Peter and John, 2
Peter iii. 18 ; Rev. xxii. 21.
D. L. Moody.
AT FAMILY PRAYERS.
Subject, Growth in Grace. Passages
to be read with brief comment : — Pro v.
iv. 18 ; Eph. iv. 14, 15 ; Psa. Ixxxiv. 5,
7 ; I Cor. iii. 18 ; 2 Peler iii. iS ; Phil,
iii. 12, 14. H. B. Chamberlin.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
^^7
WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE.
Taken our nature, John i. 14 ; Heb.
ii. 14.
Offered sacrifice of self, Heb. ix, 14,
26 ; X. 12,
Just for unjust, i Peter iii. 18.
Redeemed us. Gal. iii. 13 ; Rev, ▼. 9.
Made reconciliation, Heb, ii. 17,
Justified believers, Acts xiii. 39.
Bought His people, i Cor. vi. 20.
Wrought out righteousness, Rom. iii.
22.
Given citizenship, Eph. ii. 19.
Appointed kingdom, Luke xii, 32,
Wherefore, &c. Heb. sii. 28.
WHAT CHRIST IS DOING.
•Knowing us personally, John x. 14 j
2 Tim. ii. 19.
. Sympathizing,. Heb. iv. 15,
Succouring, Heb. ii. 18,
Guiding, John x. 3, 4,
Blessing, Acts iii. 26.
Upholding all things, Heb. i. 3,
Imparting gifts, Eph. iv. 8, 11.
Interceding, Heb. vii. 25 ; ix. 24.
Preparing a people, Titus ii. 14.
Preparing a home, John xiv. 3,
Receiving worship. Rev. v. 12-14.
WHAT CHRIST WILL DO.
Come in the clouds, Matt. xxvi. 64.
Raise us up, Jno. vi. 39-44.
Make alive, i Cor. xv, 22.
Receive to Himself, John xiv. 3,
Say, come ye blessed. Matt, xxv. 34.
" Give new name," Rev. ii. 17.
Give crown of righteousness, 2 Tim.
iv. 8.
" Confess His name," Rev. iii. 5.
" Present you faultless," Jude 24.
Lead to living fountains. Rev. vii. 17.
Take vengeance on ungodly, 2 Thess.
i. 7, 8.
FAITHFUL.
1. Faithful and just to forgive us our
sins, I John i. 9.
2. Faithful word, Titus i. 9.
3. Faithful High Priest in things per-
taining to God, Heb. ii. 17.
4. Faithful and true witness. Rev.
iii. 14.
5. Faithful that promised, Heb. x. 23.
6. Faithful Creator, i Peter iv. ig.
7. Faithful saying, for if we be dead
with Him we shall also live with Him^
2 Tim. ii. 11.
THE CRIES OF JESUS.
1. The awakening cry, John vii. 28,
2. The inviting cry, John vii. 37.
3. The life-giving cry, John xi, 43.
4. The testifying cry, John xii. 44-50.
5. The agonizing cry. Matt, xxvii. 46.
6. The satisfying cry, Matt, xxvii. 50.
- The -"ictorious cry, i Thess. iv. 16.
VOICES OF JESUS.
Shepherd's voice — Follow me.
Master's voice — Occupy.
Saviour's voice — Come unto me.
Teacher's voice — Learn of me.
feridegroorn's voice — Open to mo.
Friend's voice — Counsel thee.
Physician's voice — Wilt thou be made-
whole ?
CHRIST, THE WHOLE ARMOUR
OF GOD.
Let us put on the armour of light,
Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, Rom.
xiii. 12, 14.
Truth, Eph. vi. 14. I am the truth,
John xiv. 6.
Righteousness, Eph. vi. 14. Christ
Jesus, who of God is made unto us . . .
Righteousness, i Cor. i. 30.
Peace, Eph. vi. 15. He is our peace,.
Eph. ii. 14.
Shield of faith, Eph. vi. 16. Behold,
O God, our shield, Ps. Ixxxiv. 9.
Salvation, Eph. vi. 17. Mine eyes-
have seen Thy salvation, Luke ii. 30.
Word of God, Eph. vi. 17. His name
is called the Word of God, Rev. xix. 13.
CHRIST THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD.
1. The whole armour : Light, Rom.
xiii. 12 ; I am the light, John viii: 12 ;,
Righteousness, 2 Cor. vi. 7 ; Christ for
everything, i Cor. i. 30. .
2. -Loins girt — Christ for .service.
3. Breastplate — Christ for the affec-
tions.
4. Feet shod — Christ for the \yalk.
5. Shield against fiery darts — Christ
for temptation.
6 Helmet — Christ for protection.
7 Sword — Christ for warfarfi-
158
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE LORD'S HANDS.
Pierced for the sins of His people.
Psalm xxii. i6; John xx. 25.
Graven willi their names. Isa. xlix. 16.
Healing for their infirmities. Mark i.
41.
Filled for their needs. Exodus xxviii.
14; xxix. 9, marg.
Opened for their supply. Psalm cxlv.
16.
Uplifted in blessing. Luke xxiv. 50.
•Strong for their defence. Psalm
•cxxxviii. 7.
Sustenance for their weariness. Cant,
ii. 6.
Cunning for their fashioning. Cant.
vii. I ; Psalm cxix. 73 ; Phil. iii. 21.
Re-assuring for their fears. Rev. i. 19.
Upholding for their weakness. Isaiah
xli. 10.
Hiding in preparation for service.
Isaiah xlix. 2.
Power-giving for their service. Neh.
ii. 18.
HEBREWS I. AND II.
In chap. i. we have the true Son of
'God, the Heir of all things, the Creator
of the world, higher than the angels. In
■chap. ii. we have Jesus as true Man,
made lower than the angels. The con-
trast is brought out by a reference to the
following verses connected together : —
CHAP. I. — AS SON OF GOD.
The brightness of His glory, and ex-
press image of His person, v. 3.
Made so much better than the angels.
V. 4.
Sat down at the right hand of the
Majesty on high. Equality, v. 3.
Thy years shall not fail. Eternal.
v. 12.
CHAP. II. — AS SON OF MAN.
Partaker of flesh and blood, v. 14.
Made a little lower than the angels,
'v. 9.
Suffered, being tempted, v. 18.
Tasted death for every man. v. 9.
THE THREE COMMANDS OF
JESUS WITH REFERENCE TO
HIMSELF.
Come unto Me.
Follow Me.
Abide in Me.
COME UNTO ME.
Come unto Me. Matt. xi. 28-30.
If any man thirst let him come. John
vii. 37.
I am the way — no man cometh. John
xiv. 6.
Him that cometh unto me. John vi. 37.
Come after me. Marki. 17.
Come, for all things are ready. Luke
xiv. 17.
Compel them to come in. Luke xiv. 23.
The Master is come and calleth for
thee. John xi. 28.
The Spirit and the bride say come.
Rev. xxii. 17.
FOLLOW ME.
Jesus saith, follow Me. Matt. iv. 19 ;
vii. 22; ix. 9; Mark xi. 14; John i. 43;
xxi, 2.
Take up thy cross and follow Me.
Matt. xvi. 24; Mark x. 21; Luke ix. 25.
Sell that thou hast and follow me,
Matt, xix. 21 ; Luke ix. 23.
My sheep follow me. John x. 27.
A stranger will they not follow. John
x. 5.
If any man serve Me let him follow
Me. John xii. 26.
They that follow the Lamb. Rev.
xiv. 4.
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He leadeth me in the paths of righteous-
ness for His name's sake. Ps. xxiii.
ABIDE IN ME.
I must abide at thy house. Luke xix.
5-
Abide with us. Luke xxiv. 29.
Abide in Me. John xv. 4.
If a man abide not in Me. John xv. 6.
Abide in My love. John xv. 10.
Except these abide in the ship. Acts
xvii, 3.
Abide — Continue in the Son. i John
ii. 24.
Ye shall abide in Him. i John ii. 27.
Little children abide in Him. i John
ii. 28.
Promises to those who aljide in Jesus.
John XV. 5, 7. •
He abideth faithful. 2 Tim. ii. 13.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
159
THE BELOVED.
Accepted in the Beloved. Eph. i. 6.
Opening to the Beloved. Song of Sol.
V. 6.
Leaning on the Beloved. Song of Sol.
viii. 5.
Listening to the Beloved. Song of
Sol. ii. 8.
Speaking well of the Beloved. Song
of Sol. V. 10-16.
Fruit-bearing for the Beloved. Song of
Sol. iv. 16.
Longing after the Beloved. Song of
Sol. viii. 14.
CONFESSING CHRISF.
Mark viii. 38 ; Rom. x. 9, 10 ; Matt.
X- 32> 33 ; I Peter iii. 18.
OUR DUTY TO CHRIST THE
MEDIATOR.
To know Christ. Phil. iii. 10.
To honour Christ. John v, 23.
To walk in Christ. Col. ii. 6.
To love Christ, i Pet. i. 8.
To trust in Christ. Eph. i. 12.
To rejoice in Christ. Phil. iii. 3.
OUR EXAMPLE.
Christ, our example, Matt. x'l. 29 ; 1
Pet. i. 15 ; Phil. ii. 5 ; i John ii. 6 ; i
Peter ii. 21 ; John xiii. t^.x^THow did
Christ observe the Sabbath : — Luke iv.
16 ; Matt. xiii. 54 ; John xviii. 20 ; Luke
vi. 6. Where did Christ teach : — Mark
vi. 2-6 ; Mark i. 38 ; Matt. iv. 23 ; Mat.
v. I ; Matt, xiii. 2-3 ; Mark ii. 13. How
did Christ teach ; — Matt. yi. 29 ; Luke
iv. 17 ; Luke xx. 22 ; Luke vi. 5 ; Mark
iv. 12 ; Matt. xiii. 3 ; John iv. 7-10.
What is Christ's example regarding pray-
er : — Matt. xiv. 23 ; Mark i, 35 ; Luke
V. 16 J Luke ix. 28-29 ; John xi. 41-42 ;
|ohn xvi. 15 ; Matt. xxvi. 44-46 ; John
xii. 27 ; Luke xxii. 32 ; John xvii. 9-20.
Charactei-istics of Christ as a man :—
John iv. 34 ; Matt. iv. 8-10 ; Rom. xv.
3 ; 2 Cor, viii. 9 ; Matt. xi. 29 ; John
xiii. 14-15 ; Luke xxii. 27 ; Matt. xv. 32;
John xi. 33-35 ; Luke vii. 13 ; John viii.
12 ; Luke xxiii. 34 ; Matt. xxvi. 38 ;
Matt, xxiii. 13-19 ; Luke xix. 45-46 ;
John ii. 14-15 ; John xiii. 23 ; Johnxxxv.
36 ; Luke x. 38 ; Mark xiv. 3 ; Luke
xiv. I ; Luke xix. 5, In conclusion : —
[ohn viii. 12 ; Col. ii. 6, 7 ; Rom. xv. 5 ;
I Pet. iii. 3, 13 ; 2 Peter iii 17-18.
M. W. H.
A STUDY OF CHRIST AS THE
MODEL TEACHER.
It is important to success in any enter-
prise that we should have the most per-
fect example in every particular as our
model.
In the Bible we have a perfect model
of a teacher placed before us. We direct
your attention —
First, to the fact, Jesus did teach !
He gave an example. See John xiii. 13,
15. He is called "the Word," John i.
I, &c. ; and a word is a channel of com-
munication of thought from one mind to
another. John i. 18; "declared" ihe
Father, Gen. xlix. 10 ; Deut. xviii. 15,
19 ; Psalm xl, 6, 10 ; Isa. Ixi, i, 3.
Applied by Jesus Himself, Luke iv. 16,
I 24.
; Succession and contrast. Heb. i. i, 2;
Repeatedly spoke of his mission thus,
John xviii. 37 : Luke iv. 42, 43.
Why did Jesus teach ? i. Work given
him of God. Matt. xvii. 5 ; John v. 30 ;
John vii. 16, 18 ; John viii. 2, 6.
2, Because he loved it for the truth's
sake and souls . Psalm x. 4-8 ; John iv.
31, 34 ; Mark vi. 34 ; Mark x. 21 ; Matt,
xxiii. 37.
Whom did he teach ? Generally his
own people. Matt. xv. 24, 25, 28 ; Matt.
X. 5, 6 ; Matt. viii. 10, 13.
All whom he could reach. Matt. iv.
X2, 23, 24, 25 ; Matt. xi. I ; Mark i. 33.
Where did he teach ? In the syna-
gogue, sea-side, &c. John iii. 17 ; John
iv. 6, 19 ; Luke x. 38, 42 ; Luke xxiv.
13, 15-
Where greatest need — most teachable
spirit. Matt. ix. 13 ; John xvi. 12.
Even his enemies. John ix. 39, 41.
What did he teach ? Moral and scrip-
tural truths of the Old Testament. Mat.
XV. 2, 6 ; Matt. iv. 4, 7, lo ; Mati. xii.
3, 5 ; Matt. xxii. 29, 32 ; Luke x. 25,
28 ; Matt, xxvi. 53, 56 ; Luke xxiv. 25.
27, 44, 48 J Matt, xv., xxiii.
i6o
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Taught of Himself. Matt. x. 27, 30' ;
John ui. 14, 16 ; John v. 17, 29 ; John vi.
26, 40 ;John X. I, 18 ; John xi. 25, 27 ;
John xiv. 15, 16.
How? I. After ample previous pre-
paration ? Luke ii. 40, 52. Lived and
practised the truth thirty years. Luke
iii. 23.
2. Out of a large human experience.
Heb. iv. 14, 16 ; Heb. ii. 17, 18 ; Heb.
V. I, 2 ; Heb. x. 7, 9.
3. Fulness of Spirit. Isa. xli. i, 3 ;
Isa. xi. I, 5 ; Luke i. 35 ; Luke iii. 21,
22; Luke iv. I, 2, 14; John iii. 34; i
Cor. ii. 4, 16.
4. Weight and certainty. Matt. v. 22,
28, 32, 34, 39 ; Matt. vii. 28, 29 ; John
iii. II, 13 ; Jbhn ix. 4, 5 ; i Cor. xiv. 37.
5. With all his might ? John ix. 45 ;
John xi. 8, 9 ; Matt. xiv. 13, 25.
6. With loving kindness. Isa. xl. 11 ;
Psalm Ixxii. 12, 14 ; Luke iv. 22 ; Mark
x. 15, 16 ; Matt, xviii. 10, 14 ; Luke vii.
35, 60 ; John xi. 33, 36.
7. Fearless and faithful. Matt. xi. 20 ;
Matt, xxiii. 13 ; Matt. xv. 7, 14.
8. It was steeped in prayer. Luke iv.
21, 22 ; Luke vi. 12, 13 ; Maft. xiv. 22,
23 • Luke ix. 28 ; John xi. 41, 43 ; Luke
xxii. 31, 32 ; Heb. v. 7, 8 ; John xvii.
12 ; John ix. ii, 17.
9. Plain and simple. Matt. xi. 26 ;
Mark xii. 27 ; John vii, 14, 15 ; John iii.
12 ; John xvi. 12, 13 ; Matt. xvi. 6, 12.
10. Abounded with illustration. Matt.
vi. I, 4 ; Matt. v. 15 ; Matt. xvi. 18 ;
Matt. xxvi. 30 ] Matt. vii. 24, 27 ; Matt,
xiii. I, 8.
11. Object lesson. Little child in
midst of disciples. "Penny." " Seest
thou this woman."
12. Employed questions. Addressed
reason. , Luke ii. 46, 49 ; Luke vi. 8, 9 ;
Luke X, 25, 37 ; Matt. xxii. 15, 52.
13. Much repetition. • Isa. xxviii. 9,
13; Matt. xiii. 51, 52; Matt. vi. 2, 15,
16 ;■ Matt. vii. 7 ; Mark ix. 43, 48.
14. Very flexible and various. John
iv. ; Mott. xxii.
15. The word was accompanied with
works of grace. Matt. iv. 23, 24 ; Matt..
xi. 1,6; Mark vi. 54, 56 ; Mark iii. 7,.
10.
16. What followed his teaching ?
1. Popular attention and interest. Matt,
vii. 28, 29 ; Matt. xxi. 7, Ii ; Mark vL
2 ; Mark xi. 18 ; Luke ,iv. 32 ; Luke xix.
47, 48 ; John vii. 11, 13, 45, 49.
2. Many souls won, John iv. I ; Johi:ki
i. 40, 41, 43, 49 ; John x. 25, 27 ; John,
xii. 10, II ; Matt. xvi. 13, 17.
3. Many hardened — Some " went,
back." Luke ii. 34, 35 ; Luke iv. 28,,
29 ; Mark ii. 5, 6 ; John v. 16, 18 ; Luke
vii. II.
4. Noble band of helpers was raised
up. Matt. X. I ; Luke vi. 12, 17 ; Luke
X. I, 2 ; Luke ix. 49, 50 ; Acts iv. 27,.
33 ; Acts i. 4, 8.
5. Teaching with power. John xii. 23,.
24 ; John iv. 10, 13, 14 ; John vii. 37,,
39; Johnvi. 47, 51. .
F. H. Marling.
THE DAY OF THE LORD.
" He shall stand at the latter day upon>
the earth." — ^Job xix. 25.
Appointed a day. Acts xvii. 31.
Day is near — a cloudy day. Ezek..
XXX. 3.
Day of darkness — not light. Amos v.
18.
Day of destruction. Isa. xiii. 6, 9, 13 >
Of darkness and gloom. Joel i, 15.
Great and very terrible. Joel ii. 11.
Wonders in heaven and earth. Joel ii.
30-31-
Darkness — smoke — fire. Joel ii. 30-31..
Near at hand. Zeph. i. 14.
Of wrath— of the trumpet. Zeph. i,
15-18,
Of the Lord's anger. Zeph. ii. 2, 3.
Who may abide the day. Mai. iii. 2.
Shall burn as an oven. Matt, iv. i.
Wonderful chapter. Zach. xiv.
How shall Christ come ?
In the glory of His Father. Matt. xvi..
27.
With angels. Matt. xxiv. 30.
With power and great glory. Matt..
xxiv. 31.
Shall sit on His throne. Matt. xxvi. 31,
• On the right hand of power. Matt.
xxvi. 31.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
i6i
111 the clouds of Heaven. Matt. xxvi.
64.
V,'ilh the voice of the archangel, and
the trump of God. I Thess. iv. 16-17.
With ten thousand saints. Jude i.
14-15-
When?
As a thief in the night, i Thes. v. I -2.
Heaven shall pass away. 2 Peter iii.
10-12.
Draweth nigh. James v. 7-8.
Cometh quickly. Rev. xxii. 12-17-20.
Visions of it. Rev. vi. 12-17 ; Rev.
XX. 11-15.
Exhortations. 2 Cor. v. lo-ii; i Cor.
iii. 8; 2 Thess. i. 6-9; 2 Tim. iv. 1-8;
Heb. ix. 27-28; I Pet. iv. 5-7-17-18; I
Pet. V. 4: I John iv. 17.
C. P. J.
CHRIST IS ALL AND IN ALL.
Christ is the Saviour of men. Receive
Him. 2 Tim. i. 10.
Christ is the Door, Enter and be
saved. John x. 9.
Christ is the Way, Walk ye in Him.
John xiv. 6.
Christ is the Light of the World.
Walk in the Light. John viii. 12.
Christ is the Bread of Life. Eat and
be satisfied. John vi. 35.
Christ is the Smitten Rock. Drink of
the living streams, i Cor. x. 4.
Christ is our Peace. Rest in Him.
Eph. ii. 14.
Christ is our Shepherd, Hear His
voice. John x. ii.
Christ is our Example. Follow Him.
John xiii. 15.
Christ is our High Priest. Look up to
Him. Heb. vii. 26.
Christ is our Lord. Obey Him. John
xiii. 13.
Christ is the King of kings. Wait for
His appearing. Rev. xix. 16.
THE " ALL THINGS " OF THE
BIBLE.
IN RELATION TO THE BELIEVER.
They are of God, as to their source.
2 Cor. V. 18.
Are for the sake of believers, as to their
object. 2 Cor. iv. 15.
Work together for good, as to their
purpose. Romans viii. 28.
Christ head over the Church, as to
their arrangement. Eph. i. 22.
l"he believer may know, hence his
privilege. I John ii. 20.
The believer can do, hence liis power.
Phil. iv. 13.
10
Granted in answer to prayer, .hence
his det)endence. Matt. xxi. 22.
Only possible to faith, hence his
respojisibility . Mark ix. 23.
Are to be proved, hence his diligence.
I Thess. v. 21.
Thanks to be given for, hence his
gratitude. Eph. v. 20.
Their end at hand, hence his watch-
fulness, I Peter iv, 7.
To be inherited by the believer, hence
h\s,hope. Rev. xxi. 5.
"All Things" occurs 221 times in
the Bible.
PSALM CXLV.— KEYWORP : ALL.
The Lord is good to all, and his tender
mercies are over all his works. — Verse g.
The Lord is righteous in all his ways,
and holy in all his works. — Verse 17.
The Lord is nigh unto all them that
call upon him, to all that call upon him in
truth. — Verse 18.
The Lord upholdeth all that fall, and
raiseth up all those that be bowed down.
—Verse 14.
The Lord preserveth all them that
love him. — Verse 20.
The eyes of all wait upon thee ; and
thou givest them their meat in due
season. — Verse 15.
" All thy works shall praise thee, O
Lord, and thy saints shall bless thee."
ALL THINGS IN CHRIST.
All things are delivered unto me of
my father. — Matt. xi. 27.
All things, whatsoever ye shall ask
in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. —
Matt. xxi. 22.
All things are possible to him that
believeth. — Mark ix. 23.
All things work together for good to
them that love God. — Rom. viii. 28,
SINGLE WORDS OF WONDROUS
MEANING.—" ALL."
Air have sinned, and come short of
the glory of God. Rom. iii. 23.
They are all gone aside, they are all
together become filthy ; there is none
that doeth good, no, not one. Psa. xiv.3.
The Scripture hath concluded all
under sin, that the promise by faith of
Jesus Christ might be given to . them
that believe. Gal. iii. 22.
e62
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
The blood of Jesus Christ His Son
cleanseth us from all sin. i John i. 7.
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;
who healeth all thy diseases. Psa. ciii. 3.
In all their affliction He was afflicted,
and the Angel of His presence saved
them. Isaiah Ixiii. 9.
My God shall supply all your need
according to His riches in glory by
i'^Virist Jesus. Phil. iv. 19.
Son, thou sirt ever M?ith me, and all
that I have i3 thine. Luke xv. 31.
Vv'Jaether — the vsrorld, or life, or death,
or things present, or things to come :
all are yours ; and ye are Christ's : and
Christ isi God's, i Cor. iii. 22.
THE GOOD SHEPHERD
John X, 11-18.
1. Bible Shepherds, Gen. Ixvii. 3 ;
Exod. ii. 17 , Luke ii. 8, 20 ; i Sam.
xvi. II, 19; Matt. XV. 24.
2. The Lord my Shepherd, Psa. xxiii.
I, 4; I Pet. ii. 25 ; v. 4 ; Heb.xiii. 20, 21,
3. He kno\^j his Sheep, John x. 14 ;
Ezek. XXXV. 11 13 ; 2 Tim." ii, 19 ; John
X. 27.
4. He proviocs for his sheep, John x,
9; Psa. xviii. i, 2; Isa. Ixv. 11; Psa.
xxxiv. 10; Roiw. viii. 28.
5. He guides his sheep, John x. 3, 16 .
Psa. xxiii. 3 ; Prov, viii. 28 ; Psa. xlviii.
14 ; John xvi, 13.
6. He gives His life for his sheep,
John xviii. 11, 15 ; Isa. liii. 6; Rom. v.
8 ; Eph, V. 2 ; Tit. ii, 14.
7. He delights in his sheep, John x.
28-30 ; Mai. iii. 17 ; i Pet. ii. 9 ; Rev.
vii. 17; Psa, ciii. 13.
J. H. Vincent, D,D.
SEVENFOLD TESTIMONY TO
CHRIST.
The Father's. Luke iii. 22 ; Mark
ix. 7 ; Rom. i. 4.
The Spirit's. John xv. 26 ; Acts v. 32.
Angel's. Birth. Lukeii. 10 ; Death.
Dan, ix. 26; Resurrection. Luke xxiv.
4—7-
Man's. Acts x. 43 ; John i. 7, 32 ;
John vi. 69 ; Acts v. 32,
Devils'. Mark v. 12 ; Luke iv. 41.
Works'. John v. 36 ; x. 25 ;
Scripture's. John v. 39; Luke xxiv. 44.
THE MIND OF JESUS
Compassion. Mark viii. 2.
Resignaticn. Luke xxii. 42.
Devotedness. Luke ii. 49,
Forgiveness. Luke xxiii. 34,
Meekness. Matt. xi. 29.
Thankfulness. Matt. xi. 25.
Unselfishness. Rom. xv. ^.
Submission, Matt. iv. 7.
Prayerfulness. Luke vi. 12,
Love. Eph. V. 2.
Sympathy. John xi. 35.
Reprover. Luke xxii. 61.
Gentleness. John xxi. 15.
Endurance. Heb. xii. 3.
Pleasing. John viii. 29.
Grief. Mark iii. 5.
Humility, John xiii. 4-5.
Patience. Isaiah xiii. 7.
Subjection. John xiv. 31.
Forgiving, i Peter ii. 23.
Bearing the Cross. John xix. 17.
Zeal. John ii. 17.
Benevolence. Acts x. 38.
Firmness. Matt. iv. 10.
Receiving sinners. Luke xv. 2.
Guilelessness. i Peter ii. 22.
Industrious. John ix. 4
Confidingness. i Peter ii, 23.
Love of Unity. John xvii. 21.
Not of the World. John xvii. 14.
Calmness in Death. Luke xxiii. 46.
THE SECOND COMING OF
CHRIST.
It is named in God's word as that
which believers should long for, 2 Tim.
iv. 8 ; Titus ii. 13 ; Heb. ix. 28 ; Rev,
xxii. 20.
ATTITUDE OF THE EARLY CHURCH.
I Thess. i. 10; Phil. iii. 20; 2 Thess.ii.i.
PRACTICAL DUTIES TAUGHT BY THE
DOCTRINE.
Watchfulness. — Matt. xxiv. 42-51 ;
Mark xiii. 33-37 ; Luke xxi. 28, 34-36 ;
Rev. iJi. 3 ; Luke xii. 45, 46.
Faithfulness. — Matt, xxv, 14-20; Matt,
xxiv. 48-51 ; Luke xix. 13-15.
Wajcefulness. — Matt. xxv. 1-13 ; i
Thess. i. 8.
Joy. — Acts i. II. Compare with Luka
xxiv. 52 ; Col. iii. 4 ; Phil. iv. 4, 5 ; r
Pet. i. 7, 8 ; Rom, v. 2 ; viii, 24. The
hope is in Christ's coming.-
Patience. — Heb. x. 36, 37 ; i Cor. iv.
5 ; James v. 7, 8, In anticipation of
trouble. — ^John xiv. r-3. In actual
trouble — i Thess. iv. 13-18.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS,
163
MOTIVES ARISING FROM THE DOCTRINE.
For holiness of believers. — i Thess.
iii. 13 ; I Thess. v. 23 ; Titus ii. 11-15 ;
2. Peter iii. 11-13. For abiding in Christ.
— I John ii. 28. For perseverance, —
Rev. iii, 11. . For mini.sters preaching it.
— I Peter v. 2-4 ; 2 Tim. iv. 1-4 ; i Thess.
ii. 19.
WARNING AGAINST APOSTASY.
Luke xvii, 24-37; 2 Thess. ii. 1-12 ;
I Tim. iv. I, 2 ; 2 Tim. iii, 1-5 ; 2 Peter
iii. 1-4 ; 2 John i. 7.
AN APPEAL TO SINNERS.
2 Thess. i. 6-10 ; Acts iii. 19-21.
A PERSONAL, NOT A SPIRITUAL COMING.
Matt. X. 7 ; Matt. xiii. 11-52; Matt.
xxiv. 30 ; xii. 44, 48 ; John xxi. 19-23 ;
Luke xix. 11-15 ; John xiv. 1-3; Luke
xii. 35-40
V/hat the angels say. — Acts i. 9-11.
What Peter by the Holy Ghost says. —
Acts iii. 19-21. What Paul says by the
Holy Ghost. — i Cori. 7; i Thess. iv.i6.
What Christ said to John. Rev. xxii.
7, 12, 20.
RELATION OF THE COMING TO ISRAEL,
THE CHURCH, AND THE WORLD.
Israel (the Jews) to be restored to the
Holy Land. The land promised uncon-
ditionally.— Gen. xiii. 14-17. Its boun-
daries not yet fully occupied. — Gen. xv.
17, 18. An everlasting possession. —
<jen. xvii.3-8; Deut. xi. 12; Lev.xxv.23.
An everlasting throne.— i CHron. xvii.
4-17. Their restoration. — Isaiah i. 25-
^7 ; Isaiah ii. 2, 3; Isaiah xi. 10-13;
Jer.iii.3-8 ; Jer.xxxiii.7-16 ; Ezek.xxxvii.
.21-28: Jer. iii. 16-18. To the church. —
JR.om. viii. 23 ; i Cor. i, 7 ; Phil. iii. 20 ;
Heb. ix. 28 ; 2 Tim. iv. 8 ; Titus ii. 13 ;
1 Thess. i. 10.
Coming of the Lord in the air for
believers. Christ seen only by believers
after the resurrection. Acts i. 2, 3, 10 ;
John xiv. 19; I Thess, iv. 16; Acts x.
41 ; I Cor. XV. 18. Shout, word of
■command.
Saints only will understand the word
of command, — John xii. 28, 29 ; Acts ix.
7 compared with Acts xxii. 9 ; Dan. x.
7 ; I Cor. XV. 51, 52. The looking for
Christ is not death. — i Thess. iv. 14-18 ;
Phil, iii, 21; I Cor, xv. 23, 49-54. With
Christ, — John xii. 26; John xiv. 3, 19:
John xvii. 24; i Thess. v. 10.
BELIEVERS AND THE JUDGMENT.
Their persons and sins do 'not come
into judgment ; but their works do. —
Rom, xiv, 10; I Cor, iii. 8, 13-17; 2 Cor,
V. 10 ; Eph, vi, 8 ; Rev, xxii. 12 ; James
i, 12; 2 Tim, iv. 7, 8; I Peter v, iv; Col.
iii, 25.
COMING OF THE LORD TO THE EARTH,
Coming of the Lord is when He comes
for His saints. Day of the Lord is the
day of judgments, visitations, and the
thousand years of His reign.
For His saints. — Matt. xxiv. 29, 30;
Mark xiv. 62 ; 2 Thess. i. 7 ; Rev. i. 7 ;
Zech, xiv, i, 4, 5; Rev. xvii. 14, Com-
pare with Rev, xix. 14; Jude 14; Col. iii;
4; I Thess. iii, 13; i Thess. iv. 14.
THE BELIEVER REIGNS WITH CHRIST.
Rom. viii. 17 ; i Cor. vi. 2, 3 ; Matt.
xix. 28 ; Luke xii. 25-37 ; 2 Tim. ii, 12 ;
Rev, i, 6; Rev. iii. 21; Rev. v. 9, 10.
ORDER OF EVENTS IN CHRIST'S COMING.
1. The dead in Christ arise, and those
who are alive and remain are caught up
together with them in the clouds, i Thess,
iv. 14, 18,
A literal restoration of the Jews to their
own lan^. Part of them return in unbe-
lief,— Isaiah vi, 9, 13; Isaiah xvii. 10-14;
Dan, ix. 24-27. Compare with Zech, xi.
14-17. Zech. xii. 8-14; Isaiah xviii. 3-7;
Ezek. xxii. 1-9; Zech. xiii. 1-9.
2. The temple will be rebuilt. 2 Thess.
ii. 4; Rev. xi. 1-8.
3 . The Jews will enter into a covenant
with antichrist. Dan. ix, 27; John v. 43.
4. After three and a half years anti-
christ reveals his true character. Dan.
vii. 19-25 ; Dan. viii. 23-25 ; Dan. ix.
27; Dan. xi. 36 ; 2 Thess. ii. 3, 9 ; Rev.
xiii.
5. He stops the sacrifice in the temple
and sets up his own image for worslii}>. —
Dan. ix. 27; Dan. xi. 31; Matt. xxiv. 15;
Rev. xiii. 14-17; Dan. xii. ii.
164
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
6. The two witnesses are killed. Rev.
XI. 7.
7. The devil cast out of the air into
the earth. Rev. xii. 7-12.
S; The Holy City (Jerusalem) trodden
down. Dan. ix. 26 ; Rev. xi. 2 ; Luke
xxi. 24.
9. Great tribulations come upon the
world, Jer, xxx. 7 ; Dan. xii. i ; Matt,
xxiv. 21; Rev. vii. 14; Rev. iii. 10;
Luke xxi. 34-36; Zech. xiv. 12.
10. Israel is saved from these tribula-
tions by the personal appearance of
Christ. Zech. xiv. 1-3 ; Rev. xix ; 2
Thess. ii. 4-7.
THE RESURRECTIONS.
Difference in character of the resurrec-
tions of the believer and unbeliever.
John V. 28, 29 ; i Thess. iv. 13-18 ; i
Cor. XV. 42, 54, 55-
Difference in the time of resurrections
of believers and unbelievers. Rev. xx.
4-6 ; Luke xiv. 14 ; Isaiah xxvi. 6-9 ;
Isaiah xxvi. 12, 14, 19, 21 ; Ezek. xxxvii.
1-14: Dan. vii. 17-27; Dan. xii. 1-3;
Matt. xiii. 38-43 ; Psalm xlix. 14, 15 ;
Matt. xxii. 30 ; Luke xx. 35, 36 ; i Cor.
XV. 23; Phil. iii. 11 j Acts xxiv. 14, 15.
J. H. B.
•• UNTIL HE COME."
When we eat the Lord's supper we
show forth His death, until He come.
I Cor. xi. 26.
We are using our talents until He
come. Luke xix. 13.
We are fighting the good fight of faith,
until He come. • i Tim. vi. 12- 24.
We are enduring tribulation, until
He come. 2 Thess. i, 7.
We are to be patient, until He come.
James v, 8.
We are to wait for a crown of righteous-
ness, until He come. 2 Tim. iv. 8.
We wait for a crown of glory, until
He come, i Peter v. 4,
We wait for a reunion with departed
friends, until He come, i Thess.iv.r3-i8.
We wait for Satan to be bound, until
He come. Rev. xx. 3. D. L. Moody.
JESUS IS MINE.
Now I have found a Friend. Cant,
v. 16. Jesus is mine.
His love shall never end. Hebrews
xiii. 8. He is divine.
Though earthly joys decrease. Hab.
iii. 17, 18.
Though human friendship's cease.
Psa. xxvii. 10.
Now I have lasting peace. John xiv.27,
Jesus is mine.
Though I grow poor and old. Isa
xlvi, 4. Jesus is mine.
He will my faith uphold. I'sa. lxviii.26.
Jesus is mine.
He shall my wants supply. Psa. xxiii.i
His precious blood is nigh. Eph. i. 7
Naught can my hope destroy, Heb
vi. 19, Jesus is mine,
When earth shall pass away. 2 Peter
iii. 10. Jesus is mine.
In the -great judgment day. John v.
28, 29. Jesus is mine.
Oh what a glorious thing, i John iii. 2.
Then to behold my King. Isaiah
xxxiii. 17.
On tuneful harp to sing. Rev. v, 8.
Jesus is mine.
Farewell mortality, Phil, i, 21,
Jesus is mine,
Welcome eternity, 2 Cor, v, i,
Jesus is mine.
He my Redemption is. i Cor. i. 3a
Wisdom and Righteousness, i Cor
i. 30.
Life, Light, and Holiness, i Ccr. i. 30
Jesus is mine.
NOT£S FOR BIBLE READINGS.
1^)5
THE HOLY SPIRIT.
THE NAMES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Spirit. Eph. v. i8.
Holy Spirit. Luke xi. 3.
Spirit of Truth. John xiv. 17.
Spirit of Adoption. Rom. viii. 15.
Spirit of God. Rom. viii. 9.
Spirit of Christ. Rom. viii. 9.
Spirit of Glory, i Peter iv. 14.
Spirit of Grace. Heb. x. 29.
Spirit of Promise. Eph. i. 13.
Spirit of Wisdom. Eph. i. 17.
Good Spirit. Neh. ix. 20.
Spirit of the Lord. Luke iv. 18.
Holy Ghost. Acts i. 5.
Comforter. John xiv. 16.
THE OFFICES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Comforter. John xiv. 16.
Teacher. John xiv. 26.
Guide. John xvi. 13.
Witness. Rom. viii. 16.
Intercessor. Rom. viii. 26, 27.
Sanctifier. i Cor. vi. 11.
Reprover. John xvi. 8.
Revealer. Eph. iii. 5.
Giver. Rom. v. 5.
Jnstifier. i Cor. vi. 11.
Inspirer. 2 Tim. iii. 16.
Author of our Life. John iii. 5-8.
•Quickener. i Peter iii. 18.
Searcher, i Cor. ii. 10.
Way of Access. Eph. ii. 18.
Renewer. Titus iii. 5.
SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Wind. John iii. 8.
Fire. Acts ii. 3, 4.
Fire. Matt. iii. 11.
Rivers of Water. John vii. 38, 39.
Dove. John i. 32.
Oil. I John ii. 20.
THE DWELLING PLACE
SPIRIT.
John xiv. 17.
I Cor. iii. 16, 17.
I Cor. vi. 19;
Eph. ii. 22.
OF THE HOLY
THE SPIRIT.
Restsnng the Spirit. — Refusing to ac-
cept the testimony of Christ, as Acts
vii. 51. 53 — the sin of the unconverted.
Grieving the Spirit. — ^Yielding to things
forbidden, as Eph. iv. 29 — the sin of
the saints.
Quenching the Spirit in others by
despising prophesyings, i.e., the Spirit
speaking by others, as in 2 Thess. v. 19,20.
THE OFFICE OR WORK OF THE
HOLY SPIRIT.
To Strive. Gen. vi. 3 ; Acts vii. 51.
To send forth. Psalm civ. 30 ; John
XV. 26 ; Gal. iv. 6.
To move. Gen. i. 2.
To speak. John xvi. 13 ; Acts x. 19 ;
Rev. xxii. 17.
To guide. John xvi. 13.
To lead. Rom. viii. 14.
To help our infirmities. Rom. viii.26.
To testify. Rom. viii. 16 ; John xv.25.
To reveal. Eph. iii. 5.
To search, i Cor. ii. 10.
To possess a mind. Rom. viii. 27.
To prophecy. John xvi. 13 ; i Tim. iv.i.
To intercede. Rom. viii.. 26.
To sanctify, i Cor. vi. ii.
To quicken. John vi. 63 ; i Peter
iii. 18.
To be pleased. Acts xv. 28.
To be vexed. Isaiah Ixiii. 10.
To work in the soul. i Cor. xii. 11 ;
I Peter i. 20 ; Matt, xxviii. 19 ; 2 Cor.
xiii. 4 ; 2 Peter i. 21.
PERSON AND WORK OF THE
HOLY SPIRIT.
I. The personality of the Holy Spirit
as revealed {a) in the Old Testament.
Gen. i. 2 ; Psalm xxxiii. 6 ; civ. 30 ; Job
xxvi. 13; Isaiah xxxii. 14, 15; Ezek.
xxxvii. 9. [b] In the New Testament.
Matt. iii. 16; xxviii. 19; Mark i. 10;
Luke iii. 22 ; John i. 33 ; i Cor. xiii.14 ;
Eph. iv. 30.
1 66
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
2. Character and work of the Holy
Spirit. — ^John xiv. 16-26 ; xvi.6.7 ; Rom.
viii. 26; XV, 30; Acts xiii. 2. Agent {n)
of Christ's birth. — Matt. i. 18, 20 ; Luke
i. 35 ; John iii. 6 ; i John v. 6, 8. {/>)
Agent of the resurrection of Christ and
of believers. — Rom. i. 4'; viii. 11 ; i
Peter iii. 18.
From whom the Spirit proceeds.
John XV. 26 ; xvi. 7-14.
Dwelling of the Spirit in Christ. Luke
iv. I, 14; John iii. 34 ; Col. ii. 9.
Regeneration by the Spirit. John iii.
3, 5 ; iv. 10, 14 ; vi. 63 ; Titus iii. 5, 7.
Dwelling of the Spirit in believers.
I Cor. ii. 9-16; vi. 17; xii.13 ; Gal.iii.9;
iv. 6; v. 25; Eph. ii, 22; iii.i6; v.i-18;
1 Peter i. 11 ; i John iii. 24.
The Spirit given to the disciples.
Acts ii. 1-4; vi. 3.
The Spirit to be received by faith.
John vii. 37-39 ; Luke xi. 13 ; Gal. iii. 2;
Eph. i. 13, 14. . .
Sanctification by the Spirit. Rom .viii.
6 ; I Cor. vi. 11; Gal. v. 22-26 ; 2 Thess,
ii. 13 ; I Peter i. 2.
The Spirit dwelling in the Church.
Rom. viii. 9-1 1 ; i Cor. iii. 16, 17; yi.
13-19 ; 2 Cor. vi. 14-16 ; Eph. i. 22, 23 ;
iii. 19 j iv. 12-16; Col, i. 18, 24; i Tim.
iii. 15 ; Heb. iii. 6.
Prophesied in the Old Testament as a
Gospel blessing. Isaiah xxxii, 15 ; xliv.
3 ; Ezek. xxxvi. 27.
When the dispensation of the Spirit
began and when it will end. Matt, iii,
II ; John vii. 39 ; xiv. 16; xv. 26 ; xvi.
7 ; XX. 22 ; Acts i. 8; ii. 1-4 j iii. 21 ; 2
Thess. ii. 7 ; Rev. iv. 5.
Names and Titles of the Spirit.
Holy Spirit or Holy Ghost. — Psalm xli.
11; Isaiah Ixiii. 11 ; Matt, xxviii. 19;
Mark iii. 29 ; Luke xi. 13. Spirit of God.
— Gen. i. 2 ; Exodus xxxi. 3 ; Num.xxiv.
2 ; I Sam. x. 10 ; 2 Chron. xv. i ; Matt,
iii. 16 ; I John iv. 2. My Spirit. — Gen.
vi. 3 ; Prov. i. 23 ; Isaiah xxx. i ; Zech.
IV. 6 ; Matt. xii. 28. Spirit of the Lord.
— Num. xi. 29 ; Jud. vi. 34. , 2 Chron.
XX. 14 ; Acts V. 9, Spirit of Christ. —
Rom. viii. 9; i Peter i, 11. The Com-
forter.— John xiv. 16 ; xvi. 7. Spirit of
truth. — John xiv. 17 ; xvi. 13, Spirit of
holiness. — Rom. i. 4. Spirit of grace.
— Zech. xii. 10; Heb. x. 29. Spirit of
wisdom, might, counsel. — Isaiah xi. 2.
Spirit of promise. — Eph. i. 13. Spirit
of glory. — I Peter iv. 14. Good Spirit ►
— Neh. ix. 20 ; Psalm cxliii. 10,
H, W.Brown.
THE HOLY SPIRIT.
Co-equal with Father and Son, Gen»
i. 2 ; Psa. xxxiii. 6 ; Job, xxvi. 13.
Author of the Word, i Pet. xx. 21 ; 2
Tim. iii. 16 ; i Thess. ii. 13.
Author of the Atonement, Heb, ix. 14.
Author of the Resurrection, i Peter
iii. 18.
Spiritual knowledge, John xvi. 8 ; i.
32-33; Rom. viii. 15-16 ; Jno. iii, 5-6;
Eph. V. 26 ; John xv. 3 ; Luke iv. 1-2 ;
Heb. ii. -17-18 ; Rom. viii. 26-27 ; i John
V. 14 ; Acts xiii. 3-5 ; Acts xvi. 6-7 ; Eph.
i. 13-14. Dr. L, W. Munhall.
WHAT THE COMFORTER
SHALL DO.
(*' I will send him unto you.")
Shall dwell with you and be with yoiu
Jno. xiv. 17.
Shall teach you all things, Jno. xiv. 26.
Shall bring all things to your remem-
brance, Jno. xiv. 27.
Shall testify of me, John xv. 26.
, Will guide you into all truth, John
xvi. 13.
Shall show you things to come, John
xvi. 13.
Shall glorify me, John xvi. 14.
Shall take of mine and show it unto
you. John xvi. 15.
WHAT THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES.
John xvi. 8, II ; John iii. 5, 6 ; John
xiv. 26 ; I Cor. xii. 8 ; Rom. v. 5 ; Rom.
XV. 13; 2 Cor. iii. 17; Rom. xiv. 17;
John xvi. 13 ; i John ii. 20 ; 2 Cor i.
21, 22 ; I John ii. 17, 28.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
167
EMBLEMS OF THE HOLY
GHOST.
1. Wind or breath, Cant. iv. 16 ; Ez.
xxxvii. 9 ; John iii. 8 ; xx. 22 ; Acts ii. 2.
Mysterious, sovereign, mighty.
2. Water, Isa. xliv, 3 ; Ez, xxxvi. 25 ;
John vii. 38, 39. Pure, cleansing, re-
freshing, fertilizing, free.
3. Fire, Matt. iii. 11. Penetrating,
illuminating, warming, consuming.
4. Oil, Isa. Ixi. I ; Heb. i. 9. Heal-
ing, comforting, consecrating.
5. Seal, Eph. i. 13 ; iv, 30. Authen-
ticating, marking, securing.
6. An earnest, Eph. i. 14. The pledge
of future and full possession.
7. A dove. Matt, iii. 16. Gentle,
peaceful, pure.
8. A guide, John xvi. 13. Tender,
faithful, unfailing.
WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN?
(Acts xi. 26.)
The word rendered called in the text
is found eight times elsewhere in the
New Testament, Matt. ii. 12, 22 ; Luke
ii. 26 ; Acts x. 22 ; Rom. vii. 3 ; Heb.
viii. 5 ; xi. 7 ; xii. 25. This indicates
the divine origin of the name. It is con-
nected with the first missionary work of
the church. (The chapter following the
text is a parenthesis.) See Acts xxvi. 28 ;
I Pet. iv. 16, ["on this behalf" should
be "in this name;" Alford] ; James ii.
7, [worthy, or beautiful] ; Eph. iii. 15 ;
I Cor. xii. 12,] " //^^ Christ, " like Gen.
V. 2.]
1. In faith he is a believer in Christ,
John i. II, 12 ; iii. 14-18, 36 ; iv. 13, 14 ;
V. 21-25 ; vi. 28, 29, 40, 47, 50-54 ; vii.
37-39; viii. 24; ix. 35-39; X. 7-11; xi.
25, 26 ; xii. 24, 32, 44-48 ; Acts x: 36,
43 ; xiii. 39 ; xvi. 31 ; Rom. iv.5, 16 ; v.
I ; Gal. ii. 16 ; i John v. 10-13.
2. In relationship he is a child, John
i. 13 ; iii. 3-7, connected with verse 16 ;
Rom. viii. 3, connected with verses 14-
t^ ; Gal. iii. 26 ; iv. 1-7 ; i John v. i ;
V. 17.
3. In character he is a saint. [The
word means, "separate from common
condition and use ; dedicated."] Acts ix.
13 ; xxvi. 10 ; Rom. i. 7 ; viii. i, 27 ; i
Cor. i. 2; vi. II ; Eph. iii. 8; Heb. ii.
II ; x, 10, 14 ; xiii. 12 ; I Pet. i. 15 ;
Lev. xi. 44, 45 ; xx. 24-26 ; Matt. v.
14-16.
4. In communion a friend, John xv.
15 ; XX. 17 ; Heb. ii. ii, 12 ; James ii.
23 ; Gen. xv. 6; xviii. 17, [communion
is better than prayer] ; i John i. 3,
["fellowship," the same as "partner-
ship " in Luke v. 7, 10].
5. In conflict a soldier, 2 Tim. ii. 3;
Matt. X. 24, 25, 32-42 ; John xiii. 16 ;
XV. 18-20 ; xvi. 33 ; xvii. 4-8 ; i Cor, ix.
24-27 ; 2 Tim. iv. 7, 8.
6. In experience a pilgrim, Phil. iii.
20, 21 ; Heb. xi. 13 ; » Pet. ii. 11 ; Gal.
vi. 14 ; 2 Cor. v. i.
7. In expectation an heir, Rom. viii.
17, [joint-tenancy for eternity]; Gal. iii.
29 ; iv. 1-7 ; Tit. iii. 7 ; James ii. 5 ;
Matt. xiii. 43 ; Rev. xx. 5, 6 ; xxi. 3, 4.
To sinners. Rev. xxi. 6.
WHAT THE CHRISTIAN MAY
BE. 2 Timothy ii.
1 . A son in the faith, verse i .
2. A teacher, verse 2.
3. A soldier, verse 3.
4. A labourer, verse 6.
5. A wrestler — striving not about
words, but strive for mastery, ver. 14, 15.
6. A workman, verse 15.
7. A vessel, verse 21.
EXAMPLES.
1. Onesimus — A son, Philemon 10.
2. Epaphras — A teacher. Col. i. 7.
3. Paul — A soldier, 2 Tim. iv. 7.
4. Nehemiah— A laborer, Neh. iv. 21.
5. Jacob — A wrestler (Gen. xxxii. 24)
too strong in the flesh. Abraham, the
man of faith, quelling the strife of his
servants, Gen. xiii. 8.
THE CHRISTIAN'S STATE.
Has received the spirit of God, Rom.
viii. 9,
Is alive unto God, Rom, vi. Ii.
Is born of God, John i. 13.
Is born of the Spirit, John iii. 6.
Is born again, I Peter i. 22.
i68
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Is a new creature, 2 Cor. v. 17.
Old man put off, Col. iii. 10.
Was in darkness now in light, I Pet.
u. 9.
Now in the glorious liberty, Romans
viii. 21.
Under no condemnation, Rom. viii. I.
Has peace, Romans, v. i.
Christ living in Him, Gal. ii. 20.
Has everlasting life. Has passed from
death to life, John v. 24.
The sting of death is taken away, i
Cor. XV. 57.
THE CHRISTIAN'S BLESSED-
. NESS.
Pardoned through Christ, Acts x. 43.
Crucified with Christ, Gal. ii. 1-6.
Risen with Christ, Eph. ii. 20.
Accepted in Christ, Eph. i. 6, *].
Blessed in Christ, Eph. i. 3.
Complete in Christ, Col. ii. 9, 10.
One with Christ, i Cor. vi. 17.
Preserved in Christ, Jude i .
Devoted to Christ, Phil. i. 21.
Working for Christ, Phil. ii. 16.
Worshipping Christ, Rev. v. 7? 8.
Separated to Christ, John xvii. 16.
Fellowship with Christ, i John i. 3.
Loved by Christ, Eph. v. 25 .
Witness for Christ, John xvii. 18.
Waiting for Christ, i Thess. 1. 9, lO.
Glorified with Christ, John xvii. 22-24.
Eternally with Christ, i Thess. iv. 17.
THE CHRISTIAN'S THREE R'S.
A SPIRITUAL AND SCRIPTURAL GRAMMAR
LESSON.
The great business of life, to a
Christian, is, to know and declare the
character of God.
To show how flhe Word may enable
him to do this is the object of this
GRAMMAR LESSON.
God's name or character, as He was
pleased to reveal it to Moses was "I am
that lam." — Exodus iii. 14. Saying, in
effect, whatever I am, that am I at this
moment — now. Thus all God's "I am's "
are true just now.
The lesson proposed is simply to
connect a fragment of the verb "to be "
with three aspects of Christian character,
Thus :
' ' I AM, ) Teach us we i Receivers.
Thou art, > are to be * Responders.
He IS." ) towardsGod, ^ Reporters.
1. *'I am," is God's frequent and
varied revelation of Himself in Old or
New Testament : for instance : —
I am the Lord thy God. Exodus xx
2 ; Lev. xix.
I am the Lord that healeth thee.
Exodus XV. 26.
I am the Lord which sanctify you.
Lev. XX. 8.
I am thy salvation. Psalm xxxv. 3.
I am the Light of the world. John viii.
12 ; ix. 5.
I am the way, the truth, and the life.
John xiv. 6.
These revelations we are to take in^ in
their simple and full meaning, adding
nothing ; taking nothing away. This
is ^<t first lesson. When God says '*I
am," we are to be
RECEIVERS.
2. We may then answer, with our
lips, to God's revelation of Himself:
saying —
" Thou art," where He has said
"lam."
This is simple faith ; just to appro-
priate, or set our seal to, what God says,
(Heb. xi. 6 ; John iii. 33), and not to
make Him a liar (i John v. 10) but to
reply to his "I am,"
"THOU art."
Thus: — Thou art the Lord my God.
Thou art the Lord that healeth me,
etc., etc.
We are thus led to converse with the
living God, and are
RESPONDERS.
3. There remains one other lesson, from
"HE IS " —
The duty of telling others what He is
— what we find Him to be ; this is " The
fruit of lips confessing His nantey Heb.
xiii. 15, margin.
This is the duty of all who know Him ;
and thuSy we are, to our God, witnesses or
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
169
REPORTERS.
Just as the luoon tells, in the absence
©f the visible sun, that he is still existing
And shining, so the Christian with open
face (beholding as in a glass the glory of
his Lord) gives out that light to others,
«ven the light of the knowledge of the
^lory of God as seen in the face of Jesus
■Christ. 2 Cor. iii. 18 ; iv. 6.
Thou art my God, and I will praise
thee.
Thou art my God, and I will exalt
thee !
O give thanks vmto the Lord, for He is
;good, for His mercy endureth for ever.
Psalm cxviii. 28, 29.
The exercise may be varied by taking
the passages of Scripture where "I am,"
"Thou art," "He is," "God is," "The
L,ord is," etc., occur, and interchanging
them. Thus each Scripture " Thou art "
■will afford us an "I am " of God ; and
thus the experience of all saints becomes
to others so much blessed Revelation of
God ; and thus, also, becomes the proper-
ty of all. Take, for example ' * Thou
^rt," in Neh. ix. or Psalm Ixxxvi.
Another thought now suggests itself: —
That each of us has a special manifesta-
tion in our lives of what God is, which
■^ve alone can tell forth for His praise.
O Lord open Thou our lips ; and our
TOOUth shall show forth Thy praise. G. S.
COMFORTS FOR THE CHRISTIAN
TRAVELLER.
Man's goings are of the Lord. Pro v.
XX. 24.
Thou, oh Lord, art a shield, &c. Psa.
iii. 3.
I am with thee. Gen. xxviii. 15.
I will never leave thee, &c. Heb. xiii.
S-
Be strong and of good courage, &c.
Josh. i. 9.
Fear not, neither be faint hearted. Isa.
Tii. 4.
There shall no evil befall thee. Psa.
xci. 10, II.
Thy shoes shall be as iron. Deut.
■xxxiii. 15.
The eternal God is thy refuge, &c.
Deut. xxxiii. 27.
lie shall cover thee with His feathers.
Psalm xci. 4.
Fear not, I am thy shield. Gen. xv. i .
THE CHRISTL^N'S HIDING ♦
PLACE.
1. Where and how to get hid. Psa.
cxliii. 9.
2. With whom. Ps. xxxii. 7,
3. The Word in us. Ps. cxix. 1 1.
4. In thy W^ord. Ps. cxix. 114.
5. Under His wings. Ps. xvii. S,
6. The God-man. Isa. xxxii. 2.
7. With Christ in God. Col. iii. 3.
S. R. B.
WHAT WE HAVE BY BELIEVING
IN CHRIST.
Eternal Life — i John v. 11. Forgive-
ness of sins — Eph. i. 7. Peace with God
— Rom. V. I. Made new creatures— 2
Cor. V. 17. Partakers of the Divine
Nature — 2 Pet. i. 4. Children and hiMis
of God — Gal. iii. 26, and Gal. iv. 7. Our
old man crucified with Christ — Rom. vi.
6. Made free from the power of sin —
Rom. vi. 4, and Rom. vi. 22. Victory
through Christ — i Cor. xv. 57, and i
John V. 4. More than conquerors
through Him— Rom. viii. 37. One with
Christ — ^John xvii. 21, and Eph. v. 30.
One with Christ in the Father's love —
John xvii. 23. We have His joy— John
XV. II. His peace — John xv. 27. His
glory — ^John xvii. 22. Complete in Him
— Col. ii. 10. As He is, so are we in
this world — i John iv. 17. All things
are yours — i Cor. iii. 21, 22. He that
spared not His own Son, but delivered
Him up for us all, how shall He not with
Him, also, freely give us all things —
Rom. viii. 32.
THE PORTRAIT OF A CHRISTIAN
LADY.
DRAWN FROM THE WORD OF GOD.
She is one of the family whom Jesus
loves — ^John xi. 5. She has had her
heart " opened," like that of Lydia, "to
attend" — to take heed — to . the Lord's
Word. Acts xvi. 14,
She has, through the Spirit, and by the
Word, the same unfeigned faith which
dwelt in Lois and Eunice — 2 Tim. i, 5,
whereby, like Hannah, her heart rejoices
I/O
NOTES ON BIBLE READINGS.
in the Lord, because she rejoices in His
salvation. I Sam. ii. i ; Isa. Ixi. lo.
She sits at Jesus' feet, like Mary, to
hear His word — Luke x. 39, and to have
her understanding opened to understand
the Scriptures— Luke xxiv. 45 ; and with
"the other Mary," she keeps His say-
ings, and keeps also all that is said con-
cerning Him, pondering it in her heart —
Luke ii. 19, 51.
She desires, and seeks, like Anna, to
serve the Lord with self-denial, both by
night and day — Luke ii. 36, 37 ; aiming
to be holy both in spirit and body. And
she is ever ready to speak good of His
name, to speak of Him to all that are
looking for redemption- through Him
alone. Luke ii. 36, 37 ; i Cor. vii. 34.
She has a heart to labour for the Lord,
like Tryphena and Tryphosa — Romans
xvi. 12; and like "those women also
laboured in the Gospel," and whose
names are in the Book of Life — Phil. iv. 3.
She seeks out and ministers to the
necessities of the Lord's people, especially
of the fatherless and widows, as Dorcas
did. Acts ix. 36-39 ; Jas. i. 27.
She bestows "much labour" upon
them, as Mary did. Rom. xvi. 6.
She is "a succourer of many," and
" a servant of the Church, " like Phebe.
Rom. xvi. I, 2.
And thus, like Joanna and Susanna,
who ministered to the Lord with their
substance, she ministers to Him now in
persons of His people. Luke viii. 3 ;
Matt. XXV. 40. Such is she who is blessed
among women because she hath believed 1
Luke i. 42-45. Such is she who " hath
chosen the good part that . shall not be
taken away from her ! " Luke x. 42.
F. R. R.
THE CHRISTIAN'S CALLING.
Called by God. Rom. viii. 30 ; 2
Thess. ii. 14.
Called of Jesus Christ. Rom. i. 6 ; i
Peter v. 10.
Called according to His purpose. Rom.
viii. 28, 29-30 ; 2 Tim. i. 9.
Called the sons of God. i John iii. i;
Gal. iv. 6, 7.
Called in one body. Col. iii. 15.
Called to be saints. Rom. i. 7 ; i Cor.
i. 2 ; I Thess. iv. 7.
Called into fellowship, i Cor. i. 9.
Called into the grace of Christ. GaL
i. 6.
Called out of darkness into light, i
Peter ii. 9.
Called in hope. Eph. i. 18 ; iv. 4 ;
Rom. V. 2.
Called to virtue. 2 Pet. i. 3.
Called by the Gospel. 2 Thess. ii. 14.
Called to eternal life, i Tim. vi. 12.
Called to an eternal inheritance. Heb.
ix. 15 ; I Peter i. 4.
Called to blessing, i Peter iii. 9.
Called to liberty. Gal. v. 13.
Called to peace, i Cor. vii. 15 ; CoL
iii. 15.
Called to suffer, i Peter ii. 21 .
Called to glory, i Thes. ii. 12 ; 2
Thes. ii. 14 ; i Peter v. 10 ; 2 Peter i. 3.
A heavenly calling. Heb. iii. 1.
A holy calling, i Thes. iv. 7 ; 2 Tim»
i. 9.
That worthy name by which ye are
called. Acts xi. 26 ; James ii. 7.
Ye see your calling, brethren, i Cor.
i. 26.
The prize of the high calling. Phil.
iii. 14.
Faithful is He that calleth you. i Cor.
i. 9 ; I Thes. v. 24.
Walk worthy of. Eph. iv. i ; CoL i.
10 ; I Pet. i. 15, 16 ; 2 Peter i. 10.
THE BELIEVER'S POSITION IN
CHRIST.
As many as received Him to them gave
He power to become the sons of God^
even to them that believe on His name.
John i. 12.
Now in Christ Jesus ye, who sometimes
were far off, are made nigh by the blood
of Christ. Eph. ii. 13.
Accepted in the Beloved. Eph. i. 6.
Ye are complete in Him. Col. ii. 10.
There is therefore now no condemna-
tion to them which are in Christ Jesus.
Rom. viii. I.
Heirs of God and joint heirs with
Christ. Rom. viii. 17.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
171
ABIDING.
Abide in Me, and I in you. John xv. 4.
If ye abide in Me and My words abide
in you, ye shall ask what ye will and it
shall be done unto you. John xv. 7.
If ye keep My commandments ye shall
abide in my love. John xv. 10.
He that abideth in Me, and I in him,
the same bringeth forth much fruit. John
XV. 5.
He that loveth not his brother, abideth
in death, i John ill. 14.
And he that keepeth His command-
ments dwelleth in Him, and He in him,
and hereby we know that He abideth in
us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.
I John iii. 24.
Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth
not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not
God. He that abideth in the doctrine of
Christ, he hath both the Father and the
Son. 2 John ix.
THE BELIEVER'S WALK.
He that saith he abideth in Him ought
himself also so to walk, even as He
walked, i John ii. 6.
As ye have therefore received Christ
Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him. Col.
li. 6.
I therefore beseech you that ye walk
worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are
called^ with all lowliness and meekness,
with long suffering, forbearing one
another in love. Eph. iv. 1,2.
Walk in love. Eph. v. 2.
See that ye walk circumspectly. Eph.
v. 15.
Walk in the Spirit and ye shall not
fulfil the lust of the flesh. Gal. v. 16.
SERVICE.
No servant can serve two masters.
Luke xvi. 13.
The kingdom of God is not meat and
drink, but righteousness and peace and
joy in the Holy Ghost, For he that in
these things serveth Christ is acceptable
to God, and approved of men. Rom.
xiv. 17, 18.
By love serve one another. Gal. v. 13.
Not with eye service, as men pleasers,
but as the servants of Christ, doing the
«\'ill of God from the heart. Eph. vi. 6.
PROMISES TO BELIEVERS.
Lo, I am with you alway, even unto
the end of the world. Matt, xxviii, 20.
Fear thou not, for I am with thee, be
not dismayed for I am thy God ; I will
strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee •,.
yea, I will uphold thee with the right
hand of my righteousness. Isaiah xli. 10.
He hath said, I will never leave thee
nor forsake thee. Heb. xiii, 5.
God is able to make all grace abound
toward you ; that ye, always having all
sufficiency in all things, may abound to-
every good work. 2 Cor. ix. 8,
Now the God of peace that brought
again from the dead our Lord Jesus,
that Great Shepherd of the sheep,
through the blood of the everlasting
covenant, make you perfect in every
good work to do His will, working in.
you that which is well-pleasing in His
sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be
glory for ever and ever. Amen. Heb..
xiii. 20,21.
THE STANDING AND DUTIES
OF BELIEVERS.
I Thess. V. 8.
1. They are children "of the day.""
(i) They walk in the light, vrs. 4-7, r
John i. 6-8, as He is in the light, Eph. v.
1-15, avoiding thus the works of dark-
ness, Eph. iv. 17-24, and following Him.
who is the world's only light, John viii^
12, and xii. 35, 36. (2) They wait for
the day, Rom. xiii. 12-14 ; Heb. x. 25 ;
Psalm XXX. 5 ; Mai. iv. 2 ; Psalm cxxx^
5,6.
2. They stand prepared. — Be sober ;
or, as in verse 6. They watch and are
sober, not sleeping as others do, vrs. 6,.
7 ; Matt.. XXV. 5 ; Eph. v. 14, not care-
less, 2 Peter iii. 4, but sober ; i Cor-
ix. 24-27 ; Eph. v. 18 ; and watchful,.
Mark xiii. 33-37 ; watchful against sin,
1 Peter iv. 1-5 ; v. 8 ; watching for His^
coming, Titus ii. 13, 14 ; i Thess. i. 10 ;
2 Thess. i. 10 ; iii. 5.
f72
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
3. The power of their preparation,
putting on the breast plate of faith and
love, and for an hehnet, the hope of
salvation. — The breastplate, because we
are still warring and need it ; i Tim.
vi. 12 ; 2 Cor. x. 4 ; of faith in Ilis sal-
vation, Isaiah i. 18 ; i Peter ii. 24 ; of
faith in Himself,, Isaiah xxvi. 3, 4 ; Col.
i. 27 ; of love to Him, Rev. i. 4, 5 ; i
Peter i. 8 ; of love to all for His sake, 2
Cor. V. 14, 15, and as our helmet the
hope of salvation, Heb. vi. 18-20, sure
and certain, for already within the veil,
Rom. V. 5 ; John xvii. 24 ; i John iii. 2, 3.
THE MEASURE OF THE BE-
LIEVER'S BLESSINGS.
"Not according to our works."
We have been predestinated according
to the good pleasure of His will. Eph. i. 5.
Called according to His purpose.
Rom. viii. 28.
Saved according to His mercy. Titus
iii. 5-
Forgiven according to the riches of
His grace. Eph. i. 7.
We are blessed according as He hath
chosen us. Eph. i. 3, 4.
Strengthened according to His glori-
ous power. Col. i. II.
Supplied according to His riches in
glory. Phil. iv. 19.
We shall be fashioned like unto His
glorious body, according to the working
whereby He is able even to subdue all
things unto Himself. Phil. iii. 21.
THE BELIEVER'S LIFE IN ALL
THINGS.
By Him all which believe are justified
from all things. Acts xiii. 39.
PROMISES IN ALL THINGS.
All things whatsoever ye shall ask
in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Matt. xxi. 22.
: All things are possible to him that
believeth. Mark ix. 23.
Pie that overcometh shall inherit all
things. Rev. xxi. 7.
POSSESSIONS IN ALL THINGS.
His Divine power hath given unto
us all things that pertain unto life and
godliness. 2 Peter i. 3.
All things are yours, i Cor. iii. 21.
The living God giveth us richly all
things to enjoy. I Tim. vi. 17.
All things are for your sakes. 2 Cor.
iv. 15.
God is able to make all grace abound
toward you, that ye always having all
sufficiency in all things may abound
unto every good work. 2 Cor. ix. 8.
He that spared not His own Son, but
delivered Him up for us all ; how shall
He not with Him also freely give us all
things. Rom. viii. 32.
Even as the green herb have I given
you all things. Gen. ix. 3.
God giveth to all, life and breath and
all things. Acts xvii. 25.
TEACHING OF THE BELIEVER IN ALL
THINGS.
Ye have an unction from the Holy
One, and ye know all things, i John ii. 20.
We know that all things work to-
gether for good to them that love God.
Rom. viii. 28.
The Holy Ghost. He shall teach you
all things, and bring all things to your
remembrance. John xiv. 26. (All things,
limited by the words, whatsoever I have
said unto you.)
The same anointing teacheth you of
all things, i John ii. 27.
God hath revealed them unto us by
His Spirit, for the Spirit searcheth all
things, yea, the deep things of God. i
Cor. ii. 10.
In all things I am instructed both to
be full and to be hungry. I can do
all things through (in) Christ which
strengtheneth me. Phil. iv. 12, 13.
The Lord give thee understanding in
all things. 2 Tim. ii. 7.
They that seek the Lord understand
all things. Prov. xxviii. 8.
EXHORTATIONS IN ALL THINGS.
Watch thou in all things. 2 Tim. iv. 5.
Do all things without murmurings
and disputings. Phil, ii. 14.
But rather give alms of such things
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
175
as ye have ; and behold all things are
clean unio you. Luke ii, 41.
Godliness is profitable unto all things.
I Tim. iv. 8.
Let all things be done unto edifying.
I Cor. xiv. 26.
Let all things be done decently and
in order, i Cor. xiv. 40.
Giving thanks always for all things
unto God .... in the name of our Lord
Jesus Christ. Eph. v. 20.
Charity beareth all things, believeth
all things, hopeth all things, endureth
all things. I Cor. xiii. 7.
Above all things have fervent charity
among yourselves, i Peter iv. 8.
That they may adorn the doctrine of
God our Saviour in all things. Tit. ii. 10.
Teaching them to observe all things
whatsoever I have commanded you.
Matt, xxviii. 20.
That God in all things may be glori-
fied through Jesus Christ, to whom be
praise and dominion for ever and ever.
Amen, i Peter iv. 11.
RICHES IN GLORY.
Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ
have present joy and peace arising
from a sense of forgiveness of sins.
Even on earth they have sweet foretastes
of the happiness of Heaven — precious
earnests of treasures to be enjoyed here-
after. They may not possess much
treasure on earth, but their riches as
well as their relationships in Heaven are
glorious beyond description.
The following are some of these
inestimable blessings : —
They have a sure hope in Heaven.
Heb. vi. ig ; Col. i. 5.
A Saviour in Heaven, i Peter iii. 22 ;
Phil. iii. 20.
Their life is in Heaven hidden . with
Christ in God. Col. iii. 1-3 ; Eph. ii. 6.
Their citizenship, and therefore their
comersation, is in Heaven. Phil. iii. 20.
They have a great High Priest in
Heaven. Heb. iv. 14.
And an incorruptible inheritance in
Heaven, kept for them and they for it,
verses 4 and 5. i Peter i. 4.
Their names are written in Heaven.
Luke X. 20.
They lay up treasure in Heaven.
Matt. vi. 20.
Their hearfs affections are in Heaven.
Matt. vi. 21 ; Col. iii. 2.
They have a Master in Heaven. CoL
iv. I.
Who will give a good reward in
Heaven for service on earth. Matt. v. 12.
Chief of all, they have a Father in
Heaven, who will soon welcome home
the whole of His redeemed children.
Matt. V. 16; John xx. 17; Rom. viii. 14-15.
Now unto Him that is able to keep
you from falling, and to present you
faultless before the presence of His glory
with exceeding joy, to the only wise
God our Saviour, be glory and majesty,
dominion and power, both now and
ever. Amen. Jude 24, 25.
THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVER.
Because I live, ye shall live also.
John xiv. 19.
He that eateth Me, even he shall live
by Me. John vi. 57.
I live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in
me. Gal. ii. 20.
Called unto the fellowship of His Son
Jesus Christ, i Cor. i. 9.
God . . . hath quickened us together
with Christ. Eph. ii. 5.
We walk by faith, not by sight. 2
Cor. V. 7.
Ye are dead, and your life is hid with
Christ in God. Col. iii. 3.
He that believeth on Me hath ever-
lasting life. John vi. 47.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also
walk in the Spirit. Gal. v. 25.
Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing. 2
Cor. vi. 10.
Always bearing about in the body the
dying of the Lord Jesus. 2 Cor. iv. 10.
For me to live is Christ, and to die is
gain. Phil. i. 21.
To be spiritually minded is life and
peace. Rom. viii. 6.
Our fellowship is with the Father and
with His Son. i John i. 3.
S74
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
If any man will come after Me, let
him deny himself. Matt. xvi. 24.
Ye are complete in Him. Col. ii. 10.
We also should walk in newness of
.life. Rom. vi. 4.
I give unto them eternal life, and they
-shall never perish. John x. 28.
For we are made partakers of Christ.
Hob. iii. 14.
Partakers of the divine nature. 2 Peter
i. 4.
When I am weak, then am I strong.
.2 Cor. xii. 10.
Alive unto God through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Rom. vi. 11.
Risen with Christ, seek those things
which are above. Col. ii. 3.
I will walk before the Lord in the land
of the living. Psalm cxvi. 9.
Holy brethren, partakers of the
heavenly calling. Heb. iii. i,
God hath from the beginning chosen
you to salvation. 2 Thess. ii. 13.
Whosoever liveth and believeth in Me
.shall never die. John xi. 26.
I live by the faith of the Son of God,
•who loved me. Gal. ii. 20,
None of us liveth to himself. Rom.
:xiv. 7.
Whether we live therefore, or die, we
.are the Lord's. Rom xiv. 8.
ATTITUDES OF THE BELIEVER.
Leaning. John xiii. 23.
Lying down. Psalm xxiii. 2.
Sitting. Luke viii. 35 ; Deut.xxxiii.3.
Standing. Eph. vi. 13; Phil. iv. i.
Walking. Eph. ii. 10 ; Gal. v. 25.
Running, i Cor. ix. 24 ; Heb. xii. i .
Mounting up. Isaiah xl. 31 ; i Thess.
iv. 17.
THE BELIEVER'S CALLING.
It is a high calling, Phil. iii. 14.
It is a holy calling, 2 Tim. i. 9.
It is a heavenly calling, Heb. iii. i.
It is God who hath called us, 2 Tim.
i. 9.
It is not according to our works, 2
Tim. i. 9 ; Rom. viii. 28.
It is in and by Christ Jesus, Phil. iii.
14 ; 1 Pet. v. 10.
It is a calling independent of all
worldly honor and distinctions, i Cor*
Kxvi. 28.
We are called to be saints, Rom. i. 7 ;
I Cor. i. 2 ; i Thess. iv. 7.
We are called to follow Christ's steps,
I Peter ii, 21.
We are called to exhibit (now) all love,
forgiveness, and Christian graces, Eph.
iv. 1-3 ; I Peter iii. 8, 9.
We are called to liberty. Gal. v. 13.
We are called to glory and virtue^ 2
Peter i. 5.
We are called to be with Christ, Rev.
xvii. 14.
We are called unto the fellowship of
Jesus, I Cor. i. 9.
We are called unto God's marvellous
light, I Peter ii. 9.
We are called to eternal life, i Tim.
vi. 12.
We are called to an eternal inherit-
ance, Heb. ix. 13.
We are called to the obtaining of the
glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Thess,
ii. 14 ; Rom. viii. 30.
God hath called us unto his kingdom
and glory, i Thess. ii, 12; i Pet. v. 10.
The believer prays to be counted
worthy of this calling; to realize his
high calling, Eph. i. 18.
It sits before us a prize to press for-
ward unto, Phil. iii. 14.
We should seek to walk worthy this
calling wherewith we are called, Eph.
iv. I I Thess. ii. 12.
We should give diligence to make our
calling and election sure, 2 Pet. i. 11.
Faithful is He that calleth you who
also will do it, i Thess. v. 24.
THE PAST AND PRESENT OF
THE CHILDREN OF GOD.
(Eph. ii.)
I. Dead in trespasses and sins. Ver.
1 . Dead to God — hears not God's voice,
feels not His love, sees not his beauty.
Psa. xxviii. i ; Psa. cxliii. 7 ; Isa. liii.
2, 3 ; Luke xv, 24, 32 ; Col, ii. 13.
2.. Walking according to the course of
this world. Ver, 2. The sinner, dead
to God, is yet alive and full of activities,
ever going about. Rom. iii. 12-16 ; x.
3 ; Gal. V. 19-21 ; i John ii. 15-17 ; v.
19 ; James iv. i..
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
175
3. Walking according to the prince of '
the power of the air. Verse 2. World
and devil going same way. (2 Cor. iv. 4;
John xiv. 30; Luke iv. 5, 6,) until the
fulfilment of Matt. vi. 10; Rev, xi. 15,
17; xii. 10 ; Micah iv. 8. Contrast
last clause verse 2 (Eph. ii.) with Phil,
ii. 13.
4. Among whom {i. e. children of dis-
obedience) we all had our conversation in
times past. Ver. 3. Fellowship with the
children of disobedience, a thing of the
past to the children of God. i Peter iv.
2, 3; 2 Cor. vi. 14-18; Gal. i. 4.
5. In the lusts of our flesh. Verse 3.
A comparison of this with verse 2 shows
that the world, the devil, and the flesh,
are a threefold cord. See also why the
Lord calls Peter " Satan." Matt. xvi. 23.
6. Fulfilling the desires of the flesh and
of the mind. Verse 3. Sensuality and
intellectuality may be simply on ooposite
sides of the broad road.
7. By nature the children of wrath,
even as others. Ver. 3. Wrath is not
only deserved, but inherited: the sinner's
birthright. John iii. 36 ; Rom. v. 14, 19.
8. Wherefore remember, that ye being
in time past Gentiles. Ver. i t Gentil-
ism a thing of the past, i Cor. x. 32 ;
xii. 2 ; Col. iii. 1 1 Matt. xv. 26 j Phil,
iii. 2.
9. Uncircumcision. Ver. ii. Expres-
sive of the unjudged condition of the na-
tural man. i Sam. xvii. 26, 36 Col. ii.
II, 13 ; Ezek. xxxii. 21, 32.
10. Without Christ. Ver. 12. Isa.
iiii. 3 ; John i. 10 ; Luke xxiii. 18.
11. Aliens from the commonwealth of
Israel. Ver. 12, No national blessing
like Israel. Deut. xxxiii. 29 ; Ezek xiii.
9 ; John x, 16.
12. Strangers from the covenants of
promise. Ver. 12. No national pro-
mise like Israel. Rom. ix. 4, 8.
13. No hope. No national: hope like
Israel. Luke ii. 25 ; Acts xxviii. 20.
Hope a brin^ht and sure expectation.
14. Vv''ithout God (ver 12). A creature
lost to its Creator, Psa. xiv. i ; Job. xxi.
14; Jude 13.
15. Afar off, (ver. 17), Luke xv. 20 ;
Isa. vii. 19 ; Zech. ix. 10 ; Acts ii. 39.
16. Strangers and foreigners, (ver, 19),
Isa. Ii. I.
17. Loved in this condition with a
great love, (ver. 4 and first clause of ver.
5), Ezek. xvi. 6 ; Luke xv. 20 ; Titus iii.
4 ; Rom. V. 8 ; John iii. 16; Rev. i. 5 ;
" loved and washed," not "washed and
loved."
18. Quickened, (ver. 5), Ezek. xvi. 6 ;
xxxvii. 3-10 ; John v. 24, 25 ; xi. 25 ;
Col. ii. 13.
19. Raised, (ver. 6), Col. ii. 12 ; iii.
I ; I Sam. ii. 8.
20. Seated in heavenly places, (ver.
6), Eph. i. 20 ; i Cor. xv. 48.
21. In Christ Jesus, (ver. 6), Rom. vi.
11-23; viii- I. 39; Eph. i. i, 3, 4, 6, 7,
10; ii. 10, 13, 15, 21, 22; iv. 15; Phil, i,
I ; Col. i, 2; ii. 6, 11, etc.
22. Vessels for the display of the ex-
ceeding riches of God's grace in ages to
come, (ver. 7). Rom, viii. 17, 18 ; ix. 23 ;
2 Thess. i. 10.
23. God's worknlanship, (ver. 10), Ps.
xix. I ; c. 3 (tj-pical) ; cxix. 73 ; cxxxix.
14-16.
24. Made nigh by the blood of Christ,
(ver. 13), Heb. x. 19.
25. Having access through the Son,
by the Spirit, to the Father, (ver. 18),
John xiv. 6; Rom. v. 2 ; Eph. iii. 12 ;
I Peter iii. 18 ; contrast to the trinity of
ver. 2, 3.
26. Fellow-citizens with the saints,
(ver. 19), Phil. iii. 20, (Gr.) ; Heb. xii.
22, 23.
27. The household of God, (ver. 19),
Gal. vi. 10; Eph. iii. 15. The master
washes the feet of the servants, John xiii.
28. An holy temple, (ver. 21). The
house of God now on earth to be filled
with the sacrifice of praise continually^
I Tim. iii, 15 ; i Pet. 2, 5.
29. An habitation of God through
the Spirit, (ver. 22), i Cor. iii. 16 ; vi.
1} : contrast Rev. xviii. 2.
lyt)
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
30. What manner of persons ought
ye to be in all holy conversation and
godliness, 2 Pel. iii. 11 ; Eph. iv. 12;
Rom. xii. i ; Phil. iv. i ; Eph. v. 8.
31. Henceforth let us live not unto
ourselves, but unto Him who died for
us, and rose again, 2 Cor, v. 15.
THE BELIEVER'S FUTURE
TREASURE AND REWARD.
Matt. vi. 20 ; 2 Peter i. ii ; i Cor, iii.
14 : 2 John viii ; Matt. xxv. 34 ; 2 Tim.
iv. 8 ; Psalm cxviii. 8 ; Isaiah xvii. 7 ;
I Tim. vi. 19 ; Luke xvi. 9 ; Dan. xii. 3;
Heb. xi. 40; Eph, i. 18 ; John xiv. 2 ;
Psalm xvi. 11 ; Isaiah xvii, 5, 6; Isaiah
ii.'22.
A GIFT TO BELIEVERS.
Unspeakable gift. 2 Cor, ix. 15,
His Son. John iii, 16.
Eternal life through Jesus Christ, etc,
Rom. vi. 23.
A witness, a leader and commander.
Isaiah Iv. 4.
Eternal life and they shall never perish.
Tohn X. 28.
THE SAINT'S PORTION AND
INHERITANCE.
The Lord their portion. Psalm xvi.
5; Ixxvii. 26; Rom. viii. 17.
God's testimonies. Psalm cxix. 11 1.
The earth. Matt,v.5; Psalm xxxvii. 11.
Salvation, gltjry. Heb.i.14; Pro.iii,35.
Everlasting life. Matt, xix. 29,
Kingdom prepared. Matt. xxv. 34.
A blessing, i Peter iii. 9.
All things. I Cor, iii. 21, 22 ; Rev,
Kxi. 7.
Is in Christ. Eph. i. 11,
Eternal. Heb.ix.15 ; Psalm xxxvii. 18.
Incorruptible, i Peter i. 4.
THE FUTURE OF THE
BELIEVER.
We shall be ... . changed, i Cor. xv.
51. 52.
We shall be. . ..glorified, Romans
viii. 17.
We shall be, . . .like Him. i John iii, 2.
We shall be.... with Him. 2 Tim.
li. 12.
We shall. . . .see Him as He is. i
lohn iii. 2.
Face to face, i Cor. xiii. 12.
In His beauty. Isaiah xxxiii. 17,
Altogether lovely. Song v. 16.
THE CHRISTIAN ARMOUR.
Put on the whole armour of God.
Eph. vi. 11-13.
Put on the armour of light. Romans
xiii. 12.
Armour of righteousness. 2 Cor. vi. 7.
Breastplate of righteousness. Eph
vi. 14.
Helmet of salvation. Eph. vi. 17 ; i
Thess. V. 8 ; Isaiah Hx. 17.
Feet shod with the gospel of peace.
Eph. vi. 15; Isaiah Hi. 7; Nah. i. 15.
Peace I leave with you, &c. John
xiv. 27.
Shield of faith. Eph. vi. 16.
Fear not, I am thy shield, &c. Gen,.
XV. I.
He is our help and our shield. Psalm
xxxiii. 20.
His truth shall be thy shield. Psalm,
xci. 4 ; XXXV. 2.
He is a shield. Prov. xxx. 5.
Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God.
Eph. vi. 17.
Sword of the Spirit, in His quiver.
Isaiah xlix. 2.
Sharp two edged sword. Rev. i. 16.
Sharp sword with two edges. Rev.,
ii, 12.
W^ord of God, quick and powerful..
Heb. iv. 12.
Hour of my salvation, &c. Ps, xviii. 2.
Prayer. Eph, vi. 18.
Watch and pray. Matt. xxvi. 41 ;.
Mark xiii. 33 ; xiv. 38.
Christ's example. Mark i. 35 ; Luk&
xviii. I.
Pharisee and Publican. Luke xviii, t i .
Patient waiting for Christ. 2Thes.iii.5.
Jehovah Nissi. The Lord my banner.
Ex. xvii. 15.
His banner over me was love.
Cant. ii. -4.
God is love, i John iv. 16.
Instances of faith. Heb. xi.
I have kept the faith. 2 Tim. iv. 7.
Fight the good fight of faith, i Tim.
vi. 12.
War a good warfare, i Tim. i. 18 ;
Psalm liv.
As a good soldier. 2 Tim. ii. 3.
God which giveth us the victory, i
Cor. XV. 57.
Encouragements to those who over-
come. I John V. 4; Rev. ii, 7, 11. 17,
26 ; Rev. iii. 5, 12, 21 ; Rev, xii. 10 ;
Rev. xxi. 7.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
177
THE BELIEVER'S STANDING.
Phil. i. 6; Phil. iv. 19; Jude 24;
Rom. xiv. 4 ; Rom. viii. 39 ; 2 Tim. i. 12;
1 Peter i. 5.
ESTABLISHED.
By faith. — 2 Chron. xx. 20 ; Isaiah
vii. 9 ; Rom. iv. 5 ; John vi. 28, 29 ;
Rom. V. I, 3.
By whom. — 2 Cor. 21, 22 ; Eph. ii. 4,
10 ; Rom. xvi. 25-27.
On what foundation. — Psalm xl. 1-4 ;
Eph. ii. 19, 20 ; i Cor. iii. 11.
In a way of safety and power. — Psalm
xxxvii. 23, 24 ; Psalm cxxi ; Isaiah xli.
10, 13 ; Rom. viii. 35-39 ; 2 Chron. xxvii.
6, margin.
In the faith. — Col. ii. 6, 7 ; John vii.
16, 17 ; Acts xvi. 4, 5 ; Acts xvii. 11 ;
Acts xiv. 22 ; 2 Cor. xiii. 5 ; i Cor. xvi.
13 ; Eph. iv. 5, 13, 14, 15 ; I Peter iii. 15;
2 Tim. iv. 6, 7, 8 ; Rom. i. 16.
In holiness. — Deut. xxviii. 9 ; Eph. i,
3, 4 ; I Peter ii. 9 ; i Thess. iii. 12, 13 ;
I Peter i. 13-19 ; 2 Cor. vi. 16, 17, 18.
In grape. — Heb. xiii. 9 ; Rom. iii. 24 ;
Rom. V. 1-2 ; Rom. vi. 14 ; Titus ii. 11
to 14; 2 Peter iii. 17, 18 ; Eph. iii. 14
to 21.
In every good word and work. — 2
Thess. ii. 16, 17 ; 2 Cor. ix. 8 ; John ix.
4; I Peter v. 6-11. S. R. B.
PLEASING THE LORD.
Praise, this also shall please, Psalm
Ixix. 31.
God is well pleased, Heb. xiii. 16, 21.
Those things that please Him, John
viii. 29.
The good pleasure, etc, 2 Thess. i. 1 1 .
Those things that please Me, Isaiah
Ixi. 4.
It is pleasant, Psa. cxlvii. i, 11.
To please God, etc., i Thess. iv. i.
Please Him, etc., 2 Tim. ii. 4.
Unto all pleasing. Col. i. 10.
Man's ways please, etc., Prov. xvi. 7.
Well-pleasing to God, Phil. iv. 8.
Father's good pleasure, Luke xii. 32.
Pleasing in his sight, i John iii. 22.
Without faith it is impossible to please
God, Heb. xi. 5.
It is pleasant, Psa. cxxxv. 3.
BE YE FOLLOWERS OF GOD.
Ephesians v. I .
In holiness, i Pet. i. 15, 16 ; Lev.
xix. 2.
In love, I John iv. 2 ; Matt. v. 44, 45 ;
Eph. v. 2.
In being perfect, Matt. v. 48.
In being merciful, Luke vi. 36 ; Eph.
iv. 32.
Illustrations : —
Caleb, Num. xiv. 24.
David, I Kings xiv. 8.
Christ says "follow me," John xxi.
19; x. 27.
In what are we to follow Jesus ?
In doing His Father's will, John iv.
34 ; V. 30 ; vi. 38.
In going about doing good, Acts x. 38.
In taking up the cross, Matt. x. 38 ;
xvi. 34 ; Luke xiv. 27.
We must not follow afar oflF like Peter,
Luke xxii. 54.
We must be willing to leave all to
follow Him, Matt. ix. 20 ; Mark i. 18 ;
Luke V. II ; xiv. 33.
Promises to following Him : —
Shall not walk in darkness, Mark x.
28, 29, 30 ; Luke xviii. 28, 29, 30.
Shall be fishers of men. Matt. iv. 19.
Shall sit upon thrones, etc., Matt.
xix. 28.
WHAT IS GIVEN TO THE
BELIEVER AND HE THAT
OVERCOMETH.
A new name. Rev. ii. 17.
The morning star. Rev. ii. 28.
The white robe. Rev. vi. 11.
A new song. Rev. v. 9 ; Rev. xiv. 3^
Crown of life. Rev. ii. lo.
Palms. Rev. vii. 9.
Living fountains of water. Rev..
vii. 17.
Salvation. Isaiah Ixi. 10.
Strength. Psalm xviii. 32.
Joy. Rom. xv. 13.
Wisdom, sanctification, righteousness,,
redemption. I Cor. i. 30.
Power over all nations. Rev. ii. 26.
Mansion in the Father's house
John xiv. 2.
Eternal life. John x. 28.
Seal in the foreliead. Rev. vii. 3.
A seat on the throne. Rev. iii. 21.
Bread of life. John vi. 35.
Victory, i Cor. xv. 57.
Peace. John xiv. 27.
I7S
NOTLS roii i::ble readings.
CHOOSE THE THINGS THAT
PLEASE ME. Isa. Ivi. 4.
I Thess. ii. 4 ; Col. i. 9, 10 ; John xi.
12 ; Rom. viii. 8 ; Gen. v. 24 ; i Thess.
iv. I ; John viii. 29 ; i John iii. 22; Heb.
xi. 6 ; xi. 5 ; Prov. xvi. 7.
THE BELIEVER'S PEACE OF
HEART.
John xiv. 27 ; John xvi. 33 ; John xx.
19, 21, 26; Isaiah xxvi. 3 ; Phil. iv. 6, 7;
Col. iii. 15.
RELATIVE DUTIES OF BE-
LIEVERS. ■
A new commandment I give unto you,
that ye love one another : as I have
io^■ed you, that ye also love one another.
John xiii. 34.
Now are they many members, yet but
one body, i Cor. xii. 20,
Ye ought to wash one another's feet.
John xiii. 14.
Be kindly affectioned one to another.
Rom. xii. 10.
In honor preferring one another.
Rom. xii. 10.
Be of the same mind one toward
another. Rom. xii. 16.
Receive ye one another, as Christ also
received us to the glory of God. Rom.
XV. 7.
By love serve one another. Gal. v. 13.
Bear ye one another's burdens. Gal.
vi. 2.
Be ye kind one to another, tender-
hearted. Eph. iv. 32.
Forgive one another. Eph, iv. 32.
Forbearing one another. Col. iii 13.
Teaching and admonishing one
another. Col. iii. 16.
Comfort one another, i Thess.iv.i8.
Edify one another, i Thess. v. 1 1 .
And let us consider one another to
'^..ovoke unto love and to good works.
Heb X, 24.
Exhorting one another, and so much
the more as ye see the day approaching.
Heb. X. 25,
Confess your faults one to another.
Jaines v. 16.
Pray for one another. Jas. v. 16.
Having compassion one of another.
1 Peter iii. 8.
Use hospitality one to another, i
Peter iv. 9,
All of you be subject one to another.
I Peter v. 5.
Beloved let us love one another, for
love is of God. I John iv, 7.
SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUNG
CHRISTIANS.
Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or
whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of
God. I Cor. X. 31.
1. Never neglect daily private prayer ;
if possible have stated times for this
exercise, and when you pray, remember
that God is present, and that He hears
your prayer. Heb. xi. 6.
2. Never neglect private Bible reading;
and when you read, remember that God
is speaking to you, and that you are to
believe and act upon what He says.
Backsliding generally begins with the
neglect of private prayer and scripture
reading. John v. 39.
3. Never let a day pass without trying
to do something for Jesus. Every night
reflect what Jesus has done for you, and
then ask yourself, what am I doing for
Him? Matt. vi. 13, 16.
4. If ever you are in doubt as to a
thing being right or wrong, at once ask
God's guidance and blessing. — Col. iii.
17. If you cannot do this, stand still, —
Rom. xiv. 23.
5. Never take your Christianity from
Christians, or argue that because such
and such people do so and so, that there-
fore you may. — 2 Cor. x. 12. You should
ask yourself, how would Christ act in my
place? and strive to follow Him. — ^John
X. 27.
6. Never believe what you feel if it
contradicts God's word. Ask yourself,
can what I feel be true, if God's word be
true ? and if both cannot be true, believe
God and make your own heart a liax. —
Rom. in. 4; i John v. 10, 11.
Remember the Saviour's words : herein
is my Father glorified that ye bear much
fruit, &c. John xv. 8.
Without Me ye can do nothing. John
XV. 5.
SUGGESTIONS TO YOUNG
CHRISTIANS.
You have accepted the gospel of God
concerning His Son, Jesus Christ, Rom.
i. I, as it has been preached to you in
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
179
word and song, according to the
Scriptures, that Christ died for your sins
and lives in heaven for your justification ;
-and with all your weakness and imper-
fections, you come to Him, and trust
Him as your Saviour. Permit me to
make the following suggestions as to the
life in Christ that is before you :
1. The authority for your salvation is
the word of God. The Holy Spirit
bears witness to the word^ not to our
feelings. In proportion as you believe
the promises, and are satisfied to rest
upon them without reference to your
feelings, will you have the witness of the
Spirit. See i John v. 9-13 ; iv. 9, 10, 19 ;
fohn V. 24 ; John i. 12 ; John iii. 14-18 ;
Acts xiii. 38, 39 ; 2 Cor. v. 18-21 ; i Cor.
XV. 1-4; Rom. V. 1-8; Rom. viii. i;
Rom. X. 8-10. All of these promises are
for you. If you trust in them, God will
keep His word^ you will have the salva-
tion. Let the experience of feelmg
■come as God please.
2. Having accepted Christ, turn
■square away from every known sin,
looking to Jesus for power to do so.
^om. xii. 1-3 ; 2 Cor. vii. I ; Gal. v. 13-16;
Eph. iv. I, 2, 22-32.
3. Let nothing separate you from the
love of Christ — that is, from the believing
that He loves you — that He has com-
passion upon your weakness, sympathy
for your failings, and forgiveness for your
-sins under any and all circumstances.
If you stumble and fall, if you are over-
<come, go to Him, confess, and He will
forgive and restore you. As you confess,
look away to the cross, and see that the
sins confessed were put there, and have
been atoned for, and you will go in pe'ace,
with grace in your heart to have less
confidence in yourself, and more con-
fidence in Christ to keep you in future.
John xiii. i; Rom. viii. 31-39; 2 Cor.
xii. 9 ; Heb. ii. 16-18 ; Heb. iv. 14-16 ;
I John V. 8-10 ; i John v. i.
4. Let no day pass without getting a
portion of God's word into your heart ;
don't make any rule that you will read
so many chapters a day, but study the
word ; one verse in the heart, is better
than twenty chapters carelessly read ;
and let no day pass without secret prayer.
Cultivate the spirit of prayer ; lift your
heart silently to God during hours of
business, in hours of leisure, upon the
street, in wakeful hours of night, and
busy hours by day — when tempted, when
depressed, when joyful. God loves you ;
you have become reconciled to Him, your
sins are all forgiven, and He loves to
have you think of Him, and look to Him
in all things. Phil. iv. 4-7 ; 2 Tim. iii.
14-17; I Peter ii. i, 2; James i. 5;
James iv. 6-8.
5. Neglect no known duty. Be prompt
in obeying the leadings of the Holy Spirit.
Do not trifle with convictions He may
give you as you study God's word in
regard to any command you find there,
that you should obey. If you resist
doing His will, you will grieve Him, and
your communion with Christ will be
overclouded.
He commands us to confess Christ
with our mouths and before men. Rom.
X. 9 ; Matt. X. 32, 33.
He commands us to be baptised in
His name. Mark xvi. 16 ; Acts xvi. 31,
33; Acts viii. 35-38 ; I Peter iii. 21, 22.
He commands us to identify ourselves
with His church, and break bread and
drink the wine in memory of His death,
and to show our hope in His coming.
Luke xxii. 17-20 ; Acts ii. 42, 46, 47 ; i
Cor. xi. 23-26 ; I Cor. xii. 13 ; Heb. x. 25.
A saving faith in Christ will manifest
itself in a readiness to obey these com-
mands, and as God gives grace, all the
injunctions of His word will become
precious to you, and it will be your joy
to walk in obedience to them, in the
power of the new nature within you.
And now dear friend in Christ Jesus,
may God our Father and the Lord Jesus
Christ our Saviour, fill you with all joy
and peace in believing. We commend
\
i8o
■:OTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
you unto God and the word of His grace,
A^hich is able to build you up, and to
give you an inheritance among all them
which are sanctified. D. W. Whittle.
MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST TO
THE WORLD BY HIS PEOPLE.
1. His purpose and order. John xvii.
i8, 20, 21 ; Mark xvi. 15.
2. Life. Jarnes i. 18 ; John i. 13 ; i
Peter i. 23 ; i Johniii. 9 ; Col. iii, 1-5.
3. Membership, i Cor. vi. 15 ; Eph.
V. 30 ; I Cor. xii. 27 ; Rom. xii. 5 ; vi. 13.
4. Position. Matt. x. 40 ; i John iv.
17 ; Gal. ii. 20 ; 2 Cor. v. 14, 15, 17,
5. Light. John viii, 12 ; Matt. v. 14,
15:2 Cor. iv. 6 ; Phil. ii. 15, 16 ; Matt.
V. 16; Eph. V. 8.
6. Character. Matt. v. 13 ; Mark ix.
50; Luke xiv. 34, 35.
7. Office. John iv. 15, 16.; xv. 27;
I Peter ii. 9, 12 ; Coh i. 27 ; Gal. iv. 19;
i. 15, i6; Titus ii. 14. H. M. Parsons.
CHRISTIANS.
Are to be buried with Christ. Col.
ii, 12.
Are to be crucified with Christ. Gal.
ii. 20,
Are to be dead with Christ. Col. ii. 20.
Are to be hidden with Christ. Col.
iii. 3-
Are to be risen with Christ, Col. iii.i.
Are to be baptised (unto His death.)
Rom. vi. 3.
Are to be planted (in death.) Rom.
vi. 5.
Are to be sacrificed with Christ. John
xvii. 19 ; Heb. ii. 11.
Are to be glorified with Christ. Rom.
viii. 17; John xvii, 22.
Are to be complete in Christ. Col.
ii. 10 ; Col. iv. 12.
Are to enter into rest with Christ.
Heb. xiv. 3.
Are to suffer with Christ. 1 Peter
iv. 13 ; Rom. viii. 17.
CHRISTIANS ARE TO BE LIKE
JESUS.
Are not to look back. Luke ix. 62,
Are to deny themselves. Luke ix. 23.
Are to hear Him. Luke ix. 35.
Are to bear His cross. Luke xiv. 27.
Are to be faithful in the least. Luke
xvi. 10.
Are to take the lowest room. Luke
XIV. 10.
Are to have compassion. Luke x.
S3-37-
"HE THAT OVERCOMETH."
To him that overcometh will I give
to eat of the Tree of Life. Rev. ii. 7.
He that overcometh shall not be hurt
of the second death. Rev. ii. n.
To him that overcometh will I give
to eat of the hidden manna. Rev. ii. 17.
Him that overcometh will I make a
pillar in the temple of my Goa, and he-
shall go no more out. Rev. iii. 12.
To him that overcometh will I grant
to sit with Me in My throne even as I
also overcame, and am set down with
My Father in His Throne. Rev. iii. 21^
He that overcometh shall inherit all
things ; and I will be his God, and he-
shall be My son. Rev. xxi, 7.
And they overcame by the blood of:
the Lamb. Rev. xii. 11.
STEDFASTNESS.
Stedfast in the faith, i Peter v. 9 ;.
Coll. ii. 5.
Our profession. Heb. iv. 14; 2 Tim^
i. 13-
In doctrine. Acts li. 42.
Stedfast, unmovable. i Cor. xv. 58..
Without wavering. James i. 6 ; Heb;-
X. 23.
Established with grace. Heb. xiii. 9.
If thou prepare thine heart. Job xi.
13-20.
In sore affliction. Psalm xliv. 17, 18,
Confidence. Heb. iii. 6.
Unto the end. Heb. iii. 14; Mark
xiii. 13.
That no man take thy crown. Rev,.
iii. II.
CONSECRATION.
A call. I Chron. xxxix. 5.
A duty. Ex. xxxii. 29 ; Num. vi. 12 :;
Rev. i. 6 ; Eze. xliii, 26 ;
Acts xxiv. 16; Rom. xiii.
I ; Eph. vi. II ; 2 Cor.
vi. 19, 20.
A first duty. See i Chron. xxxix. 5 ;.
read Matt. vi. 33 ; i Tim. iv. 8 ; i Kings-
iii. 5-13 ; Mark x. 29, 30.
Must be willing. See i Chron. xxxix.
5 ; Gen. xxxv. 5 ; Psalm ex. 3 ; Judges
V. 2 ; I Chron. xxix. 9 ; i Peter v. 2.
Must be entire. Matt. vi. 24 ; Rom»
xiii. 14; I Cor. x, 31; Col. iii. 16; 2-
Tim. ii. 19-22.
Illustrations. Luke v. 11 ; Exodrs-
xxix. 20. J. H, L.
2 Cor. vi. 17 ,
14 ; Rom. xii.
V. 15 ; I Cor.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
lol
•• IN LOVE. "
Before Him. Eph. i. 4.
Rooted and grounded. Eph. iii, 17.
Forbearing one another. Eph. iv. 2.
Speaking the truth. Eph. iv. 15.
Edifying the body. Eph. iv. 16.
Walk in love. Eph. v. 2.
THE CHRISTIAN'S HOME.
I have a home above, 2 Cor. v. i.
From sin and sorrow
free ; Rev. xxi. 4, 27.
A mansion which eternal
love John xiv. 2.
Design 'd and form'd for
me. Matt. xxv. 34.
My Father's gracious hand
Eph, i. 3.
Has built this sweet abode ;
Heb. xi. 16.
from everlasting it was plann'd
Eph. i. II.
My dwelling-place with God.
Exod. XV. 17.
My Saviour's precious blood
Heb. ix. II, 12.
Has made my title sure ;
Heb. X. 14.
He pass'd through death's dark
raging flood Ps. xlii. 7.
To make my rest secure.
Heb. X. 15.
The Comforter is come,
Acts ii. 2, 4.
-> The earnest has been given ;
Eph. i. 13, 14.
He leads me onward to the home
Rom. viii. 14.
Reserved for me in heaven.
I Peter i. 4, 5.
Bright angels guard my way ;
Heb. i. 14.
His ministers of power, Ps. ciii. 20.
Encamping round me night
and day, Ps. xxxiv. 7.
Preserve in danger's hour.
2 Kings iv. 16, 17.
Loved ones are gone before,
I Thess. iv. 14.
Whose pilgrim days are done;
Heb. xi. 13.
1 soon shall greet them on
that shore. i Thess. ii. 19.
Where partings are unknown.
I Thess. iv. 17.
But more than all I long
Ex. xxxiii. lo.
His glories to behold, John xvii. 24.
Whose smile e'er fills that
radiant throng Ps. iv. 7.
With ecstasy untold. i Cor. ii. 9.
That bright, yet tender smile
Num. vi. 25, 26.
(My sweetest welcome there).
Matt, xxv. 34.
Shall cheer me through the
' little while' John xiv. 18,19.
I tarry for Him here. i Thess. i. 10.
Thy love, Thou precious
Lord, Cant, i. 2.
My joy and strength shall be,
John XV. 10, II.
Till Thou shalt speak the
gladdening word Cant. ii. 10.
That bids me rise to Thee.
Cant. ii. 13.
And then through endless
days, Ps. cxlv. 2.
Where all Thy glories shme.
Rev. xxi. 23.
In happier, holier strains I'll
praise Rev. v. 9, 10.
The grace that made me
Thine. Eph. ii. 8.
THIRTY TRAITS OF CHRISTIAN
CPIARACTER.
Assurance, i Thes. i. 5 ; Heb. x. 22.
Blameless, i Cor. i. 8 ; Phil. ii. 15.
Boldness. Heb. x. ig ; Phil. i. 20.
Charity, i Tim. iv, 12 ; 2 Pet. i. 7.
Confidence. 2 Cor. v. 6 ; Heb. x. 35.
Diligence. 2 Pet. i, 5 ; Heb. vi. 11.
Endurance. 2 Tim, ii, 3 ; Rom. v. 3.
Faithfulness, i Cor. iv. 17 ; Rev. ii,
ID.
Gentleness. 2 Cor. x. i ; Gal. v. 22.
Goodness. Eph. v. 9 ; Rom. xv. 14.
Hospitable, i Pet. iv. 9 ; Rom. xii. 13.
Holiness. 2 Cor. vii. i ; i Pet. i. 16.
Integrity. Pro. xx. 7 ; Ps, Ixxviii. 72.
Joy. Jas. i. 2 ; I Pet. i. 8.
Kindness. 2 Pet. i. 7 ; Col. iii. I2.
Love. Eph. i. 15; Gal. v. 13, 14; i
Cor. xiii.
Liberality. Isaiah xxxii. 8; 2 Cor. ix.
Meekness. Eph. iv. 2; Titus iii. 2.
Ministering. Pleb. vi. 10; i Peter iv.
10.
Obedience. Rom. xvi. 19; i Pet. i. 22,
Prayer. 2 Cor. i. 11 ; i Pet. iv. 7.
Praise. Luke xxiv. 53; Ps. cl; Rev.
v. 9-13.
1 82
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Quietness. 2 Thes. iii. 12; i Tim. ii. 2.
Readiness. Tit. iii. i ; 2 Cor. viii. 1 1 .
Soberness, i Thes. v. 6; i Pet. v. 8.
Temperance. 2 Pet. i. 6; Gal. v. 23.
Unfeignedness. i Pet. i. 22; 2 Cor.
vi. 6.
Vigilance, i Pet. v. 8; i Tim. iii. 2.
Watchfulness. Rev. iii. 2 ; i Cor.
xvi. 13.
Zeal. Col. iv. 13; Titus ii. 14.
PRECIOUS BLOOD.
{THE believer's ALPHABET.)
Atones for the soul. Lev. xvii. 1 1 .
Brings us into the covenant of grace.
Matt. xxvi. 28.
Cleanses us from all sin. i John i. 7.
Delivers God's people from judgment.
Ex. xii. 13.
Everlasting in its value. Heb. xiii. 20.
Furnishes the only ground of
peace with God. Col. i. 20.
Gives us access into His presence.
Heb. X. 19-21.
Has already obtained for us redemption.
Eph. i. 8.
Imparts eternal life. John vi. 54.
Justifies us in the sight of God.
Rom. V. 9.
Keeps us m the holy of holies.
Heb. ix. 22-26.
Links us to God's electing purpose.
I Pet. i. 2.
Makes us nigh to Him. Eph. ii. 13.
Never needs to be offered again.
Heb. ix. 14.
Overcomes the power of Satan.
Rev. xii. 11.
Purges the conscience from dead works.
Heb. ix. 14.
Quenches the righteous wrath of God.
Rom. iii. 25.
Redeems us from our state of ruin.
I Pet. i. 18, 19.
Speaks to God and to us of salvation.
Heb. xii. 25.
Tunes the voices of the saints
in holy song. Rev. v. 9.
Unites us in Christian communion.
I Cor. X. 16.
Victorious over ti-ibulation. Rev. vii. 14.
Washes us from every stain. Rev. i. 5.
. Yields the price that bought the
Church. Acts xx. 28.
BLOOD.
Clothed. Gen. iii. 21.
Sacrifice. Gen. iv. 4, 5.
Salvation. Exodus xii. 7, 13 ; Johis
i. 29 ; I Cor. v. 7.
Substitution. Isaiah liii. 4, 5.
Redemption, i Peter i. 18, 19.
Forgiveness. Eph. i. 7.
Washed. Rev. i. 5.
Justified. Rom. v. 9.
Peace. Col. i. 20.
Separation. Heb. xiii. 12.
Victory. Rev. xii. 11. W. R^
"THE BLOOD MAKETH AN
ATONEMENT FOR THE SOUL.'^
Leviticus xvii. ii ; Exodus xii. 13, 14.
The Blood of Christ purge your
conscience to serve the living God..
Heb. ix. 14.
The Blood of Jesus Christ His Soa
cleanseth us from all sin. i John i. 7.
My Blood of the new testament, which.
is shed for many, i Tim. i. 2 ; Mark
xiv. 24.
My Blood which is shed for
many for the iremission of sins. Matt^
xxvi. 28.
Ye were. . . .redeemed with the
precious Blood of Christ as of &
Lamb without blemish. I Pet. i. 18, 19.
Ye who. ... ..were far off are made-
nigh by the ■ Blood of Christ, i Peter
iii. 18 ; Eph. ii. 13.
Boldness to enter into the holiest by
the Blood of Jesus, by a new and living;
way. Heb. x. 19, 20.
Unto obedience and sprinkling of the
Blood of Jesus Christ, i Peter, i. 2.
Ye are come unto Mount Zion and
to the Blood of sprinkling that speaketb
better things. Heb. xii. 18-24.
Washed and made them white
in the Blood of the Lamb. Rev. vii. 14..
They overcame him (Satan the ac-
cuser) by the Blood of the Lamb and
their testimony. Rev. xii. 11.
(Jesus Christ) having made peace
through the Blood of His Cross. Col. i.
1-20.
Much more then, being now justified
by His blood, we shall be saved from
wrath. Romans v. 9.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
•83
In whom we have redemption through
His Blood, the forgiveness of sins. Eph.
i. 7.
In whom we have redemption through
His Blood, even the forgiveness of sins.
Col. i. 14.
Set forth a propitiation through
faith in His Blood, to declare His
righteousness. Rom. iii. 25.
This cup is the new testament in My
Blood, which is shed for you. Luke xxii,
20.
Thou hast redeemed us to God
by Thy Blood out of every kindred and
tongue. Rev. v. 9.
Washed us from our sins in His own
Blood, and hath made us kings and
priests. Rev. i. 5, 6.
That He might sanctify the people with
His own Blood, suffered without the gate.
Heb. xiii. 12.
Purged with blood ; and without
sheading of Blood is no remission. Heb.
ix. 22.
VALUE AND EFFICACY OF THE
BLOOD OF CHRIST.
The life of the flesh is in the blood ;
and I have given it to you upon the altar,
to make an atonement for your souls : for
it is the blood that maketh an atonement
for the soul. Lev. xvii. ii.
Hence we have, through faith —
I. Redemption. — In wh6m we have
redemption through His blood, even the
forgiveness of sins. Col. i. 14.
Feed the church of God, which he hath
purchased with his own blood. Acts xx.
28.
Thou wast slain and hast redeemed us
to God by thy blood, out of every kindred,
and tongue, and people, and nation.
Rev. V. 9.
Ye were not redeemed with corruptible
things, as silver and gold, from your vain
conversation, received by tradition from
your fathers ; but with the precious blood
of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish
and without spot, i Pet. i. 18, 19.
2. Forgiveness of sins. — In whom we
have redemption through his blood, the
forgiveness of sins. Eph. i. 7.
This is my blood of the New Testa-
ment which is shed for many for the re-
mission of sins. Matt. xxvi. 28.
Whom God hath set forth to be a pro-
pitiation through faith in His blood, to
declare his righteousness for the remission
of sins that are past. Rom. iii. 25.
Without shedding of blood is no re-
mission. Heb. ix. 22.
3. Justification. — Being now justified
by Flis blood, we shall be saved from
wrath through Him. Rom. v. 9.
4. Peace. — Having made peace through
the blood of His cross. Col. i. 20.
5. Cleansing from sin, both as to the
person and the conscience. — The blood of
Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from
all sin. I John i. 7.
How much shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered
Himself without spot to God, purge your
conscience from dead works to serve the
living God. Heb. ix. 14.
These are they which came out of great
tribulation, and have washed their robes,
and made them white in the blood of the
Lamb. Rev. vii. 14.
Unto Him that loved us, and washed
us from our sins in His own blood, and
hath made us kings and priests unto God
and his Father : to Him be glory and
dominion for 6ver and ever. Rev. i. 5,6.
6. Nearness to God. — Now, in Christ
Jesus, ye who sometimes were far oflF, are
made nigh by the blood of Christ. Eph.
ii- 13-
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to
enter into the holiest by the blood of
Jesus. Heb. x. 19.
7. Victory. — They overcame him by
the blood of the Lamb, and by the word
of their testimony. Rev. xii. Ii. •
8. Eternal life. — Except ye eat the
flesh of the Son of man, and drink his
blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso
eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood
hath eternal life. John vi. 53, 54.
1 84
NOTES FOR BIBLE READI^'Cl;.
TRECIOUS BLOOD.
Redeemed. I Pet. i. i8.
Washed. Rev. i. 5.
Cleansed. I John i. 7.
Forgiveness. Eph. i. 7.
Justified. Rom. v. 9.
Sanctified. Heb. xiii, 12.
Have peace. Col. 1. 20.
Perfect. Heb. x. 14.
Overcome. Rev. xii. 11.
Anointed. Rev. i. 5, 6.
. Made nigh. -Eph. ii. 13.
Constant access. Heb. x. ig.
Have right to the tree of life, and to
enter into the city by the blood.' Rev.
xxii. 14.
We stand in white robes before the
throne. Rev. yii. 14.
THE BLOOD OF CHRIST.
1. The blood of Christ brings every
one who believes within the covenant of
grace, ordered in all things and sure.
Matt. xxiv. 28 ; Heb. xiii. 20, 21.
2. The blood of Christ is the purchase
price which God has paid for the church.
Acts XX. 28.
3. • The blood of Christ constitutes the
true and only ground of peace with God.
Col. i. 20 ; Acts X. 36.
4. The blood of Christ brings those
who were once at a great distance from
God very near His heart and throne.
Eph. ii. 13.
5. The blood of Christ secures our
present redemption. . Eph. i. 7 ; I Pet. i.
18, 19.
6. The blood of Christ is the propitia-
tion for the believer. Rom. iii. 25. And
the word here rendered propitiation is
translated mercy -seat in Heb. ix. 5, the
only other passage where it is used ; so
that Christ is the mercy seat, or place of
friendly meeting between a believing
sinner and a satisfied God.
7. The blood of Christ so thoroughly
removes the guilt of the believer that
there is not a spot or stain left upon him
in God's view. I John i. 8.
8. The blood of Christ justifies all
who trust in Him, and justifies them even
amid the defilements of their nature and
the evils by which they are surrounded.
Rom. v. 8, 9.
9. The blood of Christ sanctifies uii, of
separates us from our old Adam condi-
tion and from the world and consecrates
us to God. Heb. xiii. 12 ; Pleb. x. 14.
10. The blood of Christ delivers us
from the weight and condemnation of
those works, which, however admired by
the world, are "dead," because they do
not spring from the life-giving principle
of faith. Heb. ix. 13, 14.
1 1 . The blood of Chnst has bestowed
upon us a fitness for heaven, and taken
us out of the dominion of Satan, and
placed us under the care of Him who is
Head over all things. Col. i. 12-24.
12. The blood of Christ imparts eter-
nal life and complete oneness with our
risen Lord. John vi. 54-56.
13. The blood of Christ has gained us
access into the presence of God with per-
fect confidence. Heb. x. 19-21.
14. The blood of Christ is the bond of
union and communion among Christians
of every name, i Cor. x. 16.
15. The blood of Christ, if accepted as
God's own way of saving the sinner, is
the evidence of eternal election. I Pet,
i. 2.
16. The blood of Christ, if rejected,
increases the guilt and deepens the doom
of the unbeliever. Heb. x. 29.
17. The blood of Christ is one of
God's witnesses on earth, i John iv. 8.
18. The blood of Christ has a voice,
speaking forever in the Father's ear of
justice vindicated, of law honored, of
divine righteousness illustriously display-
ed; and speaking in the anxious sinner's
ear the glad tidings of a free, certain,
present salvation to him that believeth..
Heb. xiii. 24.
19. The blood of Christ achieves the
victory over Satan, the malignant accuser
of the brethren. Rev. xii. ii.
20. The blood of Christ raises His
people to the highest dignity, although
burdened with the toils and harrassed by
the temptations of this life. Rev. i. 5, 6.
21. The blood of Christ is the joyful
theme of the redeemed, inspiring their
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
185
•songs to the highest notes of praise.
Rev. V. 9, 10,
22. The blood of Christ washes the
Tobes of the tried saints in the last days,
and introduces them into heaven, to go
-out no more, and to suffer no more for-
■cver. Rev. vii. 14-17 ; 2 Cor. ix. 15.
Dr. J. H. Brookes.
THE BELIEVER'S FELLOWSHIP.
Truly our fellowship is with the
Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.
7 John i. 3.
in death. — He died unto sin once. —
Rom. vi. 10. Reckon ye also 5'ourselves
"to be dead indeed unto sin. — Rom.vi.ii.
In resurrection. — Christ was raised up
:from the dead by the glory of the Father.
— Rom. vi. 4. Hath raised us up
together. — Eph. ii, 6.
In life. — I am He that liveth. — Rev.i.
!8. Because I live, ye shall live also. —
John xiv. 19.
lu title. — He entered in once by His
.own blood. — -Heb. ix. 12. We have
redemption through Hisblood.-Eph.i.7,
In sonship. — This is My beloved Son.
Matt. xvii. 5, Now are we the sons of
'<jrid. — I John iii. 2.
In heirship, — Heir of all things, -Heb.
i. 2. Joint heirs with Christ. — Rom.
•viii. 17.
In righteousness. — The righteousness
-of God in Him. — 2 Cor. v. 21.
In holiness. — A lamb without blemish
and without spot — i Peter i. 19. There
is no spot-in thee. — Cant. iv. 7.
In love. — God is love. — i John iv. 16.
The love of God is shed abroad in our
hearts. — Rom. v. 5.
In power. — Greater works than these
.shall He do, because I go unto My Father.
— John xiv. 12. I can do all things
■through Christ which strengtheneth me.
— Phil. iv. 13.
In judgment. — The Father .... hath
vcommitted all judgment unto the Son.
f oan V. 22. The saints shall judge the
w\<irlr: — i "'-- "
In rule. — Psalm ii, 9 ; Rev. ii. 26, 27.
Rev. xix. 14, 15.
In aim. — Father, glorify Thy name.- -
John xii. 28. Therefore glorify God m
your body, and in your spirit, which are
God's. — I Cor. vi. 20.
In possession. — All things that the
Father hath are Mine. — John xvi 15.
All things are yours. — i Cor. iii. 21.
FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD AND
ITS RESULTS.
WE ARE
Justified with God. Job. xxv. 4 ; Ro.
iii. 26.
WE HAVE
Peace with God. Rom. v, 1.
Power with God. Gen. xxxii. 28.
Favour with God. Luke i. 30.
LET US
Meet with God. Ex. xix. 17.
Abide with God. i Cor. vii. 24.
Walk with God. Gen. v. 22.
Work with God. i Sam. xiv. 45.
Plead with God. Job xvi. 21.
FELLOWSHIP AS PRESENTED 1 1;
THE FIRST EPISTLE OF JOHN.
1 . Fellowship, its nature. i John
i-iii. I, 2.
2. Fellowship, its fruit, Holiness, i
John iii. 3-24.
3. Fellow^ship, its law, Tricth . i Jno.
iv. 1-6.
4. Fellowship, its life, Lovf. i John
iv. 7-21.
5. Fellowship, its root, Faith. 1 Jno.
V, 1-21.
1. The nature of fellowship, presented.
(I.) As affected by the incarnation and
death of Christ, chap. i. 1-7. (2.) As
affording no ground for the denial of our
sinfulness, chap. i. 8 ; ii. 5. (3.) As the
only efficient basis of brotherly love.
chap, ii 6-1 1. (4.) Reason for address-
ing all Christians, the feeblest and
youngest on this subject, chap. ii. 12-14.
(5.) Non-fellowship with the world,
chap. ii. 15-17. (6.) Non-fellowship
with antichristian error, chap. ii. 18-29.
(7.) Relation of fellowship to sonship,
and future giory, chap. iii. 2.
2. The fruit of fellowship, Holiness.
(i.) Its binding natur'=-. r'^--\ r' -■),
1 86
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
(2.) Brotherly love one of the fruits of
holiness, chap. iii. 10-18. (3.) Other
fruits, chap. iii. 19-24.
3. The law of fellowship, Truth, chap,
iv. 1-6.
4. The life of fellowship, Love, chap,
iv. 7-21.
5. The root of fellowship, Faith, (i.)
Its efficacy, chap. v. 1-5. (2.) The three
witnesses to its all-sufficient foundation,
chap. V. 6-12. (3.) Faith in intercessory
prayer, or prayer for one another, chap.
V. 13-17. (4.) Conclusion — Christians
urged to maintain fellowship through
Christ, chap. v. 18-21.
FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST.
In blessing. Eph.i. 3.
In power. Eph. i. 20.
In rest. Eph. ii. 6.
In the heavenly manifestations. Eph.
iii. 10.
In victory. Eph. vi. 12.
ASSOCIATION WITH CHRIST.
God is offering His Son to sinners.
Richer, fuller, freer love He could not
show. A gift more precious He could
not bestow. I find no such thought in
Scripture as *' grasping the promises;"
they are all yea and amen in Christ Jesus.
Your eternal weal or woe, dear reader,
hangs upon your rejection or reception of
God's Son, God does not give promises
to the sinner ; but offers Christ. The
saint gets all the promises. The sinner
gets Christ, and he finds all the promises
wrapped up in Him.
1. His Cross — Crucified with Christ.
Gal. ii. 20.
2. His Death — Dead with Christ.
Rom. vi. 8.
3. His Life — Quickened us together
with Christ. Eph. ii. 5.
4. His Resurrection — Raised in His
resurrection. Rom. vi. 5.
5. His Rising — If ye then be risen
with Christ. Col. iii. i.
6. His Position — As he is, so are we in
this world. I John iv. 17.
7. His Acceptance — Accepted in the
Beloved. Eph. i. 6.
8. His Peace — My peace I give unto
you. John xiv. 27.
9. His Joy — My joy fulfilled in them-.
John xvii. 13.
10. His Love — The love wherewith)
thou hast loved Me may be in them.
John xvii. 26.
11. His Glory — Glorified together.
Rom. viii. 17.
12. His Rest — Entering into His-
(God's) rest. Heb. iv. i.
13. His Throne — Sit with Me in My
throne. Rev. iii. 21.
14. His Reign — We shall also reign^;
with Him. 2 Tim. ii. 1-2.
15. His Patience — Thou hast kept the
word of My patience. Rev. iii. 10.
16. His Power — To him will I give
power as I received of My Father. Rev.
ii. 26, 27.
17. His Inheritance — In whom we also-
obtain an inheritance. Eph. i. ii.
18. His Heirship — Joint-heirs with
Christ. Rom. viii. 17.
19. His Likeness — We shall be like-
Him. I John iii. 2. Like Him bodily^
Phil. iii. 21.
20. His iVdt/wr^— Partakers of His-
nature. 2 Pet. i. 4.
21. His Mind — We have the mind of
Christ. I Cor. ii. 16.
22. His Sanctification — I sanctify My-
self, that they also might be sanctified.
John xvii. 19.
23. His Mission — As My Father hatha
sent Me, even so send I you. John xx. 21.
24. His Rejection — If they have perse-
cuted Me, they will also persecute you.
John XV. 20.
25. His God and Father — My Father-
and your Father, My God and your God.
John XX. 17.
26. His Yoke — Take My yoke upon?
you. Matt. xi. 29.
27. His Cup — Ye shall drink indeed of
My cup. Matt. xx. 223.
28. His Words — I have given unto
them the words which Thou gavest Me.
John xvii. 8.
THE "PARTAKERS" OF THE
BIBLE.
Partakers of that one bread. I Cor^
X. 17.
Partakers of Christ's sufferings, i Pet.
iv. 13.
Partakers of his promise in Christ..
Eph. iii. 6.
Partakers of the inheritance of ther
saints, etc. Col. i. 12.
Partakers of the heavenly calling. Helx.
iii. I.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
187
Partakers of Christ. Heb. iii. 14.
Partakers of the Holy Ghost. Heb.
vi. 4.
Partakers of His holiness. Heb. xii. 10.
Partakers of sufferings and consolation.
2 Cor. i. 7.
Partakers of the glory that shall be re-
vealed. I Pet. V. I.
THE PRIVILEGES OF THE
SAINTS.
Partakers of flesh and blood. Heb.
ii. 14.
Partakers of the heavenly calling.
Heb. iii. i.
Partakers of Christ. Heb. iii. 14.
Partakers of the Holy Ghost. Heb.
Partakers of chastisement. Heb. xii. 8.
Partakers of His holiness. Heb. xii.
10.
Partakers of Christ's suffering, i Pet.
iv. 13.
Partakers of the glory, i Pet. v. i .
Partakers of the divine nature. 2 Pet.
i. 4.
Partakers of the consolation. 2 Cor.
i. 7.
Partakers of the afflictions of the Gos-
pel. 2 Tim. i. 8.
Partakers of the inheritance of the
saints in light. Col. i. 12.
PARTAKERS.
Of Grace, Phil. i. 7. Of the Affliction
of the Gospel, 2 Tim. i. 8. Of His holi-
ness, Heb. xii. 10. Of the Glory that
shall be revealed, i Pet. v. i. Of the
Divine Nature, 2 Pet. i. 4. The Inher-
itance of the Saints in Light, Col. i. 12.
Of Christ's sufferings, i Pet. iv. 13.
And also of the consolation, 2 Cor. i. 7.
Of the Heavenly calling, Heb. iii. i. Of
Christ, Heb. iii. 10. Of the Holy Ghost,
Heb. vi. 4.
PARTAKERS.
Our Privileges. — Of Christ, Heb.
iii. 14. Of Grace, Phil. i. 7. Of the
divine nature, 2 Pet. i. 4. Of the
heavenly calling, Heb. iii. i. Of His
promise, Eph. iii. 6. Of the inheritance
of the saints, Col. i. 12. Of the glory
that shall be revealed, i Pet. v. i.
Our Responsibilities.— Of the gos-
pel, I Cor. ix. 23. Of His holiness,,
Heb. xii. 10. Of afflictions, 2 Tim. i. 8.
Of the one loaf, i Cor. x. 17; the Lord's-
body, I Cor. x. 21. Of Christ's suffer-
ings, I Pet. iv. 13. Of discipline, Heb..
xii. 8.
" ONE ANOTHER."
Fellowship of saints. Rom. xii. 5 ;,
I Cor. i. 17 ; xii. 13 ; Eph. iv. 25 ;,
Eph. iv. 16.
Love one to another. John xiii. 34 ;,
XV. 12-17 ; I John iii. 23 ; 2 John v. ;.
iv. 7-11 ; Gal. v. 13 ; i Thess. iv.
9 ; I Thess. iii. 12 ; Rom. xii. 10 ; i
Peter iii. 8 ; Heb. x. 24 ; John xiii. 35 ;.
see Matt. v. 44-48 ; Mark xii. 31 ; Rom..
xiii. 10 ; Rom. xiii. 8.
Unity one virith another, i Cor. xii.
25 ; Rom. xii. 16 ; Rom. xv. 5 ; see also-
Phil. i. 27 ; ii. 2 ; iii. 16 ; i Cor. i. 10;
I Peter iii. 8.
Duties connected vi^ith one another..
Eph. iv. 2, 32 ; Col. iii. 13.
What to do. Gal. vi. 2 ; I Thess. iv^
18 ; I Thess. v. 11 ; Rom. xiv. 19 ; xv..
14 ; Col. iii. 16 ; Rom. xv. 7 ;' James v..
6 ; Eph. V. 21 ; l Peter v. 5 ; Heb. iii..
13 ; Heb. x. 25 ; John xiii. 14 ; i Peter
iv. 9 ; I Cor. xi. 33 ; Rom. xvi. 16 ; 1
Cor. xvi. 20 ; 2 Cor. xiii. 12 ; i Pet. v. 14.
What not to do. Gal. v. 26 ; Gal. v^
15 ; James iv. 2 ; v. 9 ; I Cor. iv. 6 ; CoL
iii. 9 ; Rom. xiv. 13.
ALL MINE ARE THINE AND
THINE ARE MINE.
John xvii. 10.
My blood which is shed for you. Eph^
ii. 13 ; Heb. xiii. 12 ; i John i. 7 ; Luke
xxii. 20.
My body which is given for you.
Rom. vi. 6 ; i Peter ii. 24 ; Eph. i. 22 ;
Luke xxii. 19.
Go to my brethren and say unto them
I ascend unto My Father. John xx. 1 7.
iSIy burden is light. Gal. v. i ; 2 Cor.
i. 3 ; Phil. iv. 6. 7 ; Matt, xi. 30.
Against the day of my burying hath,
she kept this. Rom. vi. 4 ; John xii. 7^
i8S
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
This is My commandment that ye
love one another as I have loved you.
John XV. 12.
Ye shall drink indeed of my cup.
Matt. xxvi. 42; John xviii. 11; Psa.
txiii; Matt. xx. 23.
Then are ye my disciples indeed.
John XV. 8 ; John viii. 31.
My doctrine is not mine, but His that
'Sent me. John xvii. 4 ; John vii. t6.
My Father and your Father. John x.
29, 30; xvi. 27; xvii. 24; XX. 17.
My flesh is meat indeed. John vi. 51 ;
iv. 34 ; Heb. x. 19-23 ; John vi. 55.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever
I command you. Rom. v. 10 ; John xv.i4.
That they may behold my glory, which
thou hast given me. John xvii. 22 ;
jcvii. 24.
My God, My God, why hast Thou
forsaken me ? 2 Cot. v. 21 ; Matt,
xxvii. 46.
If I honour myself, my honour is noth-
ing, it is My Father that honoureth me.
John viii. 54.
To sit on my right hand and on my
left hand is not mine to give. Mark x. 40.
Mine hour is not yet come. John vii.
30 ; viii. 20 ; Luke xxii. 53 ; John ii. 4.
That they might have my joy fulfilled
in them selves. J ohn xv. 1 1 ; John xvii .13.
My judgment is just. John xii. 48;
•Luke V. 22 ; John v. 30.
My Kingdom is not of this world.
Kev. xi. 15 ; xix. 16 ; John xix. 36.
Feed My lambs. Luke xviii. 16 ;
John X. 16 ; i John ii. 28 ; John xxi. 15.
I lay down my life for the sheep.
Psalm xxiii. i ; Heb. xi'ii. 20 ; i Peter
V. 4 ; John x. 15.
Continue ye in my love, i John iii.
i' ; Ephesians iii. 17-19 ; 2 Thess. iii. 5 ;
John XV. 9.
My meat is to do the will of Him
4hat sent me. Matt. iv. 4 ; Rom. xii. i ;
John iv. 34.
Behold my mother and my brethren.
Luke ii. 48, 49; John xix. 26; Matt.
xii. 49.
Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father
in My name, He will give it you. John
xvi. 23.
My peace I give unto you. Rom. v,
1 ; Eph. ii. 14; Heb. xiii. 20, 21 ; John
xiv. 27.
For My sake and the Gospel's. Matt.
XXV. 40 ; Isaiah xliii. 25 ; 2 Cor. viii. 9 ;
Mark x. 29.
I know my sheep and am known of
mine. 2 Tim. i. 12 ; ii. 19; i John iii.
2 ; John x. 14.
That ye may eat and drink at my
table in my kingdom. Canticles ii. 4;
Luke xxii. 30.
Ye are they which have continued
with me in my temptations. Rev. iii.
10-12 ; Luke xxii. 28.
My time is not yet come. Acts i. 7 ;
Heb. X. 37 ; Titus ii. 13 ; John vii. 6.
Every one that is of the truth heareth
My voice. Prov. viii. 34 ; Cant. ii. 8 ;
John xviii. 37.
Not My will, but Thine be done.
Acts xxvii. 23 ; I Thess. iv. 3 ; Gal. ii.
20 ; John xxii. 42.
If I bear witness of myself, My wit-
ness is not true, &c. 2 Peter i. 17, 18 ;
1 John i. 3 ; John v. 31.
If ye abide in me, and My words abide
in you, ye shall ask what ye will. John
XV. 7.
My yoke is easy. Phil. ii. 13 ; iv. 4 ;
2 Cor, iii. 17 ; Matt. xi. 30.
I and My Father are one, John x. 30.
Wist ye not that I must be about
My Father's business. Luke ii. 49.
I have kept my Father's command-
ments. John XV. 10.
No man is able to pluck them out of
my Father's hand. Johnx. 29.
In my Father's house are many
mansions. . John xiv. 2.
Until that day when I drink it new
with you in my Father's kingdom.
Matt. xxvi. 29.
I am come in my Father's name.
John V. 43.
I send the promise of my Father upon
you. Luke xxiv. 49.
If I do not the works of my Father,
believe me not. John x. 37.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
iSgj
TRULY OUR FELLOWSHIP IS
WITH THE FATHER, AND
WITH HIS SON, JESUS
CHRIST.— I John i. 3.
Ye are the body of Christ, i Cor.
xii. 27.
Behold, what manner of love the
Father hath bestowed upon us. i
John iii. i.
Crucified with Christ. Rom. vi. 6.
Died with Christ. (Alford's transla-
tion.) Rom. vi. 8.
Buried with him. Rom. vi. 4.
Planted together in tlie likeness of
His death. Rom. vi. 5.
Planted together in the likeness of His
resurrection. Rom. vi. 5.
Quickened together. Eph. ii. 5.
Raised up together. Eph. ii. 6.
Sitting together in heavenly places.
Eph. ii. 6.
Living together, i Thess. v. 10.
Working together. Mark xvi. 20 ;
2 Cor. vi. r.
Suffering together. Rom. viii. 17.
Glorified together. Rom. viii. 17.
I am the light of the world. John
viii. 12.
Ye are the light of the world. Matt.
v. 14.
I am not of the world. John xvii. 16.
They are not of the world. John
xvii. 16.
Because it knew Him not. i John iii. i .
The world knoweth us not. i
John iii. i.
Ye know that it hated Me. John
XV. 18.
The world hath hated them. John
xvii. 14.
I have overcome the world. John
xvi. 33.
Whatsoever is bom of God overcometh
the world, i John v. 4.
He will judge the world by that Man
whom He hath ordained. Acts xvii. 3 1 .
Do ye not Icnow that the saints shall
judge the world, i Cor. vj. 2.
He put on righteousness as a breast-
plate. Isaiah lix. xvii.
Having on the breastplate of righteous-
ness. Eph. vi. 14.
An helmet of salvation on His head.
Isaiah lix. 17.
Take the helmet of salvation. Eph.
vi. 17.
Behold the Man, whose name is the
Branch. Zech. vi. 12.
Ye are the branches. John xv. 5.
A living stone, i Peter ii. 4.
Ye also, as lively stones, i Peter ii. 5.
The Son of God. i John iii. 8.
Now are we the sons of God. i>
John iii. 2.
A Priest upon His throne. Zech. vi. 13..
And hath made us kings and priests.
Rev. i. 6.
He shall reign for ever and ever.
Rev. xi. 15.
They shall reign for ever and ever..
Rev. xxii. 5.
The faithful witness. Rev. i. 5.
Ye are witnesses. Luke xxiv. 48.
He was afflicted. Isaiah liii. 7.
Then shall they deliver you up to be-
afflicted. Matt. xxiv. 9.
He Himself has suffered, being tempted.
Heb. ii. 18.
Ye are in heaviness through manifold
temptations, i Peter i. 6.
He was reviled, i Peter ii. 23.
Men shall revile you. Matt. v. 11.
He is despised. Isaiah liii. 3.
We are despised, i Cor. iv. 10.
Make the Captain of their salvation
perfect through sufferings. Heb. ii. 10.
After that ye have suffered a while
make you perfect, i Peter v. 10.
His Son, the brightness of His glory..
Heb. i. 3.
Bringing many sons unto glory.^
Heb. ii. 10.
He went forth conquering, and to-
conquer. Rev. vi. 2.
More than conquerors through Him.
Rom. viii. 37.
Heir of all things. Heb. i. 2.
Heirs of God, joint-heirs with Christ..
Rom. viii. 17.
My servant. Isaiah xlii. i.
Servants of God. i Peter ii. 16.
God anointing Jesus. Acts x. 38,
He which hath anointed us is God.-
2 Cor. i. 21.
Christ, who is the image of God. 2-
Cor. iv. 4.
Changed into the same image. 2
Cor. iii. 18.
Even as We are One. John xvii. 22.
That they may be one. John xvii. 23.
Even as Thou hast loved Me. John
xvii. 23.
Thou hast loved them. John xvii. 23.
In whom I am well pleased. Matt.iii.17.
The Lord taketh pleasure in His,
people. Psalm cxlix. 4.
Without spot. I Peter i. 19.
igo
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
There is no spot in thee. Song iv. 7 .
Who pnly hast immortality, i Tim.
■vi. 16.
This mortal must put on immortality.
1 Cor. XV. 53.
How terrible art Thou. Psalm lxvi.3.
Thou art terrible. Song vi. 4.
Holy, undefiled. Heb. vii. 26.
My undefiled. Song v. 2.
Grace is poured into Thy lips. Psalm
xlv. 2.
Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet
and tny speech is comely. Song iv. 3.
God hath blessed Thee for ever.
Psalm xlv. 2.
God hath blessed us witn all spiritual
blessings in heavenly places. Eph.1.3.
He which raised up the Lord Jesus.
.2 Cor. IV, 4.
Shall raise up us also by Jesus. 2
Cor, iv. 4.
Crowned with glory and honor.
Heb. ii. 9.
Ye shall receive a crown of glory.
I Peter v. 4.
Chosen of God. i Peter ii. 4.
They that are with Him are chosen.
Hev. xvii. 14.
He was faithful to Him that appointed
Him. Heb. iii. 2.
They that are with Him are faithful.
Rev. xvii. 14.
Mine elect. Isaiah xlii. i .
Elect of God. Col. iii. 12.
In whom my soul delighteth.
Isaiah xlii. i .
The Lord delighteth in thee. Isaiah
Ixii. 4.
My beloved. Matt. xii. 18.
My beloved. Jer. xi. 15.
Fairer than the children of men.
Tsalm xlv. 2.
Thou art all fair. Song iv. 7.
How great is His beauty. Zech. ix. 17.
Thou wast exceeding beautiful.
Ezek. xvi. 13.
He Himself likewise took part of the
■same. Heb. ii. 14.
The children are partakers of flesh and
blood. Heb. ii. 14.
There appeared an angel, strengthen-
mg Him. Luke xxii. 43.
Strengthened with all might. Col. i. 1 1.
My Father. John xx, 17.
Your Father. John xx. 17.
My God. John xx. 17.
Your God, John xx 17.
The Lord of peace. 2 Thess. iii. 16.
My peace I give unto you. John
xiv. 27.
He would have given thee living
water. John iv. 10.
He that believeth on Me, out of him
shall flow rivers of living water.
John vii. 38.
A man of sorrows. Isaiah liii. 3.
Ye shall be sorrowful. John xvi. 20.
His raiment was white as the light.
Matt, xvii 2.
Clothed in white raiment. Rev. iv. 4.
His countenance was as the sun.
Rev. i. 16.
Clear as the sun. Song vi. 10.
The Lord will hold thine hand.
Isaiah xlii. 6.
I the Lord will hold thy right hand.
Isaiah xli. 13.
Jesus wept. John xi. 35.
Ye shall weep. John xvi. 20.
All power is given unto Me. Matt,
xxviii. 17.
I give unto you power. Luke x. 19.
Jesus groaned in the spirit. John xi. 33.
We do groan being burdened. 2
Cor. V. 4.
Jesus was troubled. John xi. 33.
We are troubled on every side. 2
Ccr. iv. 8.
I will also give Thee for a light to
the Gentiles. Isaiah xlix. 6.
The Lord commandeth us, saying, I
have set thee to be a light of the
Gentiles. Acts xiii. 47.
A man of sorrows. Isaiah liii. 3.
Ye »ow therefore have sorrow. John
xvi. 22.
This is His name whereby He shall
be called, the Lord our righteousness.
Jer. xxiii. 6.
This is the name wherewith she shall
be called, the Lord our righteousness.
Jer. xxxiii. 16.
Christ hath suffered for us in the
flesh. I Peter iv. i.
Arm yourselves likewise with the
same mind, i Peter iv. I.
A man approved of God. Acts ii. 22.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
191
Study to shew thyself approved unto
'God. 2 Tim. ii. 15.
He became obedient. Phil. ii. 8. .
As obedient children, i Peter 1. 14.
Merciful. Heb. ii. 17.
Be ye therefore merciful. Luke vi.36.
Christ pleased not Himself. Rom.
■XV. 3.
We then . . ought . . . not to please
ourselves. Rom. xv. 1.
I am meek and lowly. Matt. xi. 29.
Be clothed with humility, i Peter v, 5.
Separate from sinners. Heb. vii. 26.
Be ye separate. 2 Cor. vi: 17.
Even as Christ forgave you. Col.iii.13.
So also do ye. Col. iii. 13.
I am holy, i Peter i. 16.
Be ye holy, i Peter i. 16.
As I have loved you. John xiii. 34.
That ye also love one another. John
•xiii. 34.
Jesus rejoiced in spirit. Luke x. 21.
Rejoice in the Lord. Phil. iv. 4.
I will feed My flock. Ezek. xxxiv. 15.
Feed My sheep. John xxi. 16.
He. . gave thanks. Mark viii. 6.
Giving thanks always. Eph. v. 20.
Holy, harmless. Heb. vii. 26.
Be ye harmless. Matt. x. 16.
I have washed your feet. John xiii. 14.
Ye also ought to wash one another's
•feet. John xiii. 14.
Even as He is pure, i John iii. 3.
Every man that hath this hope in him
rpurifieth himself, i John iii. 3.
I in them, and Thou in Me. John
xvii. 23.
To him that overcometh will I grant
to sit with Me in my throne, even as I
also overcame, and am set down with
my Father in His throne. Rev. iii. 21.
To him that overcometh„and keepeth
My works unto the end, to him will I
give power over the nations, and He
•-shall rule them. Rev. ii. 26, 27.
Even 'as I received of my Father. Rev.
;ii. 26, 27.
As My Father hath sent Me. John
XX. 21.
£ven so send I you. John xx. 21.
As the Father hath loved me. John
xv. 9.
So have I loved you. John xv. 9.
I have given unto them the words
which Thou gavest Me. John xvii. 8.
The glory which Thou gavest Me, I
»have given them. John xvii. 22.
As . . I Lve by the Father. Johavi. 57.
So he that eateth Me, even he shall
live by Me. John vi. 57.
If ye keep My commandments, ye
shall abide in My love. John xv. 10.
Even as I have kept My Father's
commandments. John xv. 10.
And abide in His love. John xv. 10.
Whereby are given unto us exceeding
great and precious promises, that by
these ye might be partakers of the divine
nature, having escaped the corruption
that is in the world through lust. 2
Peter i. 4.
FAITH.— Heb. xi. i.
Hope of faith. Gal. v. 5.
Joy of faith. Phil. i. 25.
Confidence of faith. Eph. iii. 12.
Boldness in speaking. 2 Cor. iv. 13.
Peace. Rom. xv. 13.
Rest. Heb. iv. 3.
Fight of faith. I Tim. vi. 12.
Believers live by faith. Heb. ii. 4.
Believers stand by faith. 2 Cor. i. 24.
Believers walk by faith. 2 Cor. v.- 7.
Believers resist the devil, i Pet. v. 9.
Believers overcome the world, i John
v. 4.
Believers obtain a good report. Heb.
xi. 39.
Believers overcome difficulties. Heb.
xi. 33.
Believers die in faith. Heb. xi. 13.
We are saved by faith. Acts xvi. 3 1 .
We get remission of sins. Rom. iii. 25.
We are adopted by faith. Gal. iii. 26.
We are justified by faith. Rom. v. I.
We are sanctified by faith. Acts xxvi.
18.
We are purified by faith. Acts xv. 9.
We are edified by'faith. i Tim. i. 4.
We^are kept by faith, i Pet. i. 5.
We have access to God by faith. Rom.
V. 2.
We inherit the promises. Heb. vi. 12.
Saints should be sincere. I Tim. i. 5.
Saints should abound. 2 Cor. viii. 7.
Saints should continue. Acts ii. 22.
Saints should be strong in faith. Rom.
iv. 20, 21.
FAITH IN EXERCISE.
Living. Gal. ii. 20. Obeying. Rom,
xvi. 26. Walking. 2 Cor. v. 7. Work-
ing. I Thes. i. 3. Praying. Jas. v. 15.
Enduring. I Pet. i. 7. Fightmg. 1
Tim. vi, 12.
192
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
TRUE FAITH AND ITS FRUITS.
The man believed the word that Jesus
had spoken unto him. Joha iv. 50.
If thou believest with all thine heart.
Acts viiiv 37.
Lord, I believe ; help Thou mine un-
belief. Mark ix. 24.
A great number believed and turned
unto the Lord. Acts xi. 21.
Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the
Christ, is born of God. i John v. i.
Who is he that overcometh the world,
but he that believeth that Jesus is the
Son of God. I John v. 5.
As many as received Him, to them
gave He power to become the sons of
God, even to them that believe on His
name. John i, 12.
■ Whosoever believeth in Him shall re-
ceive remission of sins. Acts x. 43.
Pie that Cometh to Me shall never
hunger ; and He that believeth on Me
shall never thirst. John vi. 35.
We should be to the praise of His
glory, who first trusted in Christ. Eph.
i. 12.
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye
heard the word of truth, the gospel of
your salvation : in whom also after that
ye believed, ye were sealed with that
Holy Spirit of promise. Eph. i. 13.
The multitude of them that believed
were of one heart and of one soul. Acts
iv. 32.
They which have believed in God
should be careful to maintain good works.
Titus iii. 8.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and
thou shalt be saved. Acts xvi. 31.
We are not of them who draw back
unto perdition; but of them that believe
to the saving of the soul. Heb. x. 39.
God so loved the world, that He gave
His only begotten Son, that w^hosoever
believeth in Him should not perish, but
have everlasting life. John iii. 16.
He that believeth on the Son hath
everlasting life. John iii. 36.
Whosoever believeth in Me shall never
die. John xi. 26.
He that believeth on the Soa of God
hath the witness in himself. I John v. 10.
I know whom I have believed, and an»
persuaded that he is able to keep that
which I have committed unto HiiU'
against that day. 2 Tim. i. 12,
We which have believed do enter intO'
rest. Heb. iv. 3.
Believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeak-
able and full of glory. I Pet. i. 8.
Receiving the end of your faith, even,
the salvation of your souls, i Pet. i. 9.
H. N. C.
WHAT WE GAIN BY FAITH.
Pardon. Acts x. 43.
Peace with God. Rom. v. I.
Eternal Life. John iii. 36.
The Holy Spirit. John vii. 39.
Sonship. Gal. iii. 26.
Heirship. Rom. viii. 17*
WHAT WE DO BY FAITH^
We live. Rom. i. 17.
We stand. 2 Cor. i. 24.
We walk. 2 Cor. v. 7.
We fight. I Tim. vi. 12.
We overcome, i John v. 4,
FAITH.
Faith's key unlocks the treasury of
Grace, and gives us fourteen things of
priceless value, as seen in Rom. v :
The Holy Ghost. Ver. 5.
The love of God in our hearts. Ver. 5..
Atonement. Ver. 11.
Reconciliation to God. Ver. 10.
Justification now by His blood. Ver. 9.
Salvation from wrath. Salvation b\-
his life. Ver. 9.
Abundance of grace, Ver. 17.
Gift of righteousness. Ver. 17.
Access to God. Ver. 2.
Stand. Ver. 2.
Peace with God. Ver. i.
Joy in God. Ver. li.
Rejoicing in hope. Verse 2*
Reign in life. Ver. 17.
FORGIVENESS.
Eph. i. 7 ; I John ii. 12 ; Isaiah Iv. 7;
with Luke xviii. 13, 14; John i. 29;
Isaiah liii. 6 ; i Peter ii. 24 j Heb. ix.
26 ; Isaiah i. 18 j Rev. i. 5 ; i John i. 9;
Psalm xxxii, i ; ciii. 12 ; Isaiah xliv. 22;
Jer. xxxi. 34; Isaiah xxxviii. 17; Micab
vii. ig ; Ezekiel xxxiii. 16; Luke xv.
20-22.
Lessons, i. Love much. Luke vii^
36-50. 2. Forgive others Eph. iv, 32 '
Col. iii, 13 ; Matt. vi. 12-15 » xviii. 23-35
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
193
ASSURANCE OF FAITH.
John V. 24 ; John vi. 47 ; John x. 28 ;
Rom. viii. i ; Phil. i. 6 | Eph. ii. 6 ; 2
lim. i. 12 ; i John ii. 25 ; Heb. xiii. 5.
FAITH.
rJy faith we live. Rom. i. 17.
By faith we stand. 2 Cor. i. 24.
By faith we walk. 2 Cor. v. 7,
By faith we fight, i Tim. vi. 12.
By faith we overcome, i John v, 4.
By faith we are justified. Rom. iii.28.
By faith we are mad,e children of God.
Gal. iii. 26.
By faith we are sanctified. Acts
xxvi. 18.
By faith we have access. Rom. v. 2 ;
Eph. iii. 12.
Faith purifies the heart. Acts xv. 9.
Without faith we cannot please God.
Heb. xi. 6.
HOLINESS OR SANCTIFICATION.
I. — Sanctificaiion as Act.
1. To make clean. See Old Testa-
ment, also Heb. xiii. 12 ; x. 29 ; x. 14 ;
X. 10 ; ix. 13 ; ii, 11.
2. To set apart or consecrate to a
divine purpose after purifying. See Old
Testament, the case of priest and Levites,
also 2 Tim, ii. 21: Eph, v. 26, 27;
Titus ii. 14.
3. To set apart a common thing for
the holy use of a holy one. i Tim. iv. 4,5.
4. To devote a person already and
intrinsically holy to a divine purpose.
John X. 36 ; xvii. 17-19.
$. To consider and treat with the
respect or veneration becoming a person
or thing as holy. Matt. vi. 9 ; i Peter
iii, 15 ; Ex. xx. 8 ; Deut. xxxii. 51.
II. — Sanctificaiion or Holiness as a State
or Condition of deiiig, and as the per-
manent essential condition of the believer
in the sight of God.
1, The believer in Christ unites in
his permanent condition before God all
the results of the sanctifying act of God;
he is a separated, cleansed, consecrated,
unblemished one, without spot or wrinkle
or any such thing, ever to be mentioned
as holy and without blame in Christ.
2. Before God his changeless name
is " saint-;" see the greetings of the
Epistles,
3. See Acts xx. 32 ; xxvi. 18.
4. See I Cor. i. 30; vi. 11 ; vi. i(>
Eph. V. 27 ; 2 Tim. i. 9.
5. Holy brethren. Heb, iii, i ; Joho
xvii.
6. Holiness is inseparable from " the
new man."
III. — How is this State or Condition before
God brought about by Him ?
By union with what is holy ; see the
frequent " in Christ," " in Him." i Cor.
i. 30 ; Eph. i, 4 ; Col, i. 22 ; and as
illustrated by lesser facts in Matt, xxiii.
17-19 ; I Cor. vii, 14.
IV. — How is the believer to be or to become
holy in actual experience.
1. The ground of such possibility lies
in the new birth and in " the Spirit" as
different from, and opposed to "the
flesh." Rom, viii. 4; Gal. v. 16-18;
I John ii, 29 ; iii. 9.
2. The permanent state of the be-
liever before God in Christ must first
of all be seen and owned by him ; and
then the word to him is, "you are a
saint, now be a saint," " you are a sanc-
tified one, be sanctified," " you are un-
leavened, be unleavened ;" in brief, " be
what you are," "do what you did once
for all in becoming one with Christ."
For proof see i Cor, v, 7, 8 ; Col. iii.
1-5 ; I Peter i. 22, 23 • i John iv. 17;
Rom. vi. 19, 22 ; 2 Cor. vii. i ; i Thess^
iii. 12, 13, iv. 3, 7 , V. 23, 24; Heb^
xii. 14 ; Rom. xii. i ; i Cor, iii, 17 ; Eph^
iv, 24; Col, iii. 12; I Peter i, 15, 16;
Jude 20; John xvii. 11. Holiness is.
both the condition and end of being.
3. The believer must ever as a person
identify himself with "the Spirit" as
the new nature, sphere, realm, to which
he now belongs. Gal. v. 27 ; Col. iii. 7.
He is in Christ and Christ is in him,
the Spirit of God is with the spirit of
the saintly child of God. Rom. viii. 9»
16; I Cor, vi, 17,
4. The agent of such practical holi-
ness, whose spirit and fulfillment is love,
is the Holy Spirit ; the means He uses
the holy Word : the insimmcm t^e
194
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
faith of the saint ; and prayer is in-
separable from all.
(a). As agent, the Holy Spirit takes
charge of the child of God for every-
thing, from regeneration to glorification.
Rom. viii. 14 ; Phil. i. 10 « John iii. 5 ;
I Cor. V, II ; I Peter i. 2 ; Titus iii. 5,
6; 2Thess. ii. 13. " A no f/zer Comforter."
{b). He educates the believer especial-
ly in holiness. Phil. ii. 12 ; 2 Cor. iii,
18 ; Eph. iv. 30 ; as covering, Eph. iv.
17-32.
{c). The Holy Spirit uses the word,
the truth, and in fullest personal form
He uses the whole, Christ. Jesus, the
Word, all that is in Christ for the saint,
from the cross to the throne. John xv.
26; xvi. 13, 14 ; XV. 3 ; Eph. v. 25, 26 ;
I Peter i. 22; Rom, v. 5 ; i Cor. ii. 12,
as related to i Cor. i. 30.
(rf). And so specifically He uses for
sanctification the facts and finished re-
alities in Christ. He points faith to the
blood and the glory. He makes the
"leading thought of every epistle a reason
for holiness. Rom. xii. i; Eph. v. i .
1 Peter ii. 1-5, 9-11 ; Col, i. 9-1 1, as re-
lated to Col. i. 12-14 ; Gs-l* V- 22-28 ; X
Cor. V. 7, 8 ; i Peter i. 22, 23.
{e) . He enlightens for growth in grace
the believer to see in Christ such re-
alities as follows : Eph. i. 16-23, 3-s re-
lated to Eph. i. 4-6 ; Eph. iii. 16-20, as
related to 2 Cor. xii. 9 ; John xvii, 17-19,
as related to John xvii. 14, 16, 26 ; also,
2 Cor. iii. 18 ; iv. 16-18 ; vii. i ; i Cor.
vi. 19 ; I John iii. 13 ; Titus ii. 11-14.
The result of all such action and be-
holding is holiness.
(/). Finally, all is related to humble,
earnest prayer to God for such manifes-
tation of the enlightening power of the
Holy Spirit, who leads and keeps the
believer in holiness. So Paul, inspired
Dy the Holy Spirit to pray, hints to us
evermore of the mind of the Spirit.
Eph. i. 15-23 ; iii. 14-21 ; Phil. i. 3-6 ;
r Thess. v. 23-25; John xv. 16; Heb.
xiii 20. 21.
V. — Lastly, present Attainments and Ex-
periences of Holiness {and Love is the
spirit and sum of Holw.-'^s. i Thess.
iii. 12, 13), are never lit- to God's
standard and measure for us as saints.
This is implied or taught in —
1. The exhortations of the Epistles.
2. The advocacy of our High Priest.
Luke xxii. 31, 32 ; i John ii. i.
3. The intercession of the Holy Spirit.
Rom. viii. 26, 27.
4. The washing of feet. John xiii. 3-17.
5. The offerings in Old Testament
for SINS of ignorance.
6. The typical teaching of the mitre.
Ex. xxviii. 30-38-
7. The water of purification for the
wilderness. Num. xix.
8. The leaven in the meat-offering of
the Church as compared with that of
Christ in Lev. xxxiii. 15-17, with Lev.
xxiii. 10-13.
9. The testimony of Paul, i Cor. iv.1-5.
10. The perfecting change dependent
on the Lord's coming.
11. The confession of saints.
12. The deeper knowledge of the
word of God, Heb. iv. 11-16 ; xii. 9-14 ;
xiii. 20, 21. W. J. Erdman.
HOLINESS.
" Be ye holy, for I am holy."
God is Holy, Holy, Holy, Rev. iv. 8.
The Holy Leather. John xvii. 11.
The Holy Son. Luke i. 35.
The Holy Spirit. Eph. iv. 30.
His people are a holy temple, i Cor.
iii. 17.
His people are a holy priesthood.
I Pet. ii. 5.
His people are holy brethren. Heb.
iii. I.
The Father chose them that they
might be holy. Eph. i. 4.
The Son died for them that they
might be holy. Eph. v. 27.
The Spirit was given that they might
be holy. 2 Thess. ii. 13.
God creates them in holmess. Eph.
iv. 24.
God calls them to holiness, i Thess,
iv, 7.
God stablishes their hearts in holi-
ness. I Thess. iii. 13,
God chastens them that they may
bepartakers of His holiness, Heb. zii,io.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
195
They are to serve Him in holiness,
f^uke i. 75.
They are to perfect holiness in His
{fear. .2 Cor. vii. i.
They are to follow holiness. Heb.
xii. 14.
They are to have their fruit unto
lioliness. Rom. vi. 22.
They are to offer their bodies as a
%oly sacrifice. Rom. xii. i.
They shall be presented holy in His
•sight. Col. i. 22.
They shall be citizens of the holy
Jerusalem. Rev. xxi. 10.
They shall be holy still. Rev. xxii. 11.
THE, WAY OF HOLINESS.
Believer, would you be "sarictified
•wholly?" Then ponder, deeply and
-prayerfully, exhortations in the sixth
and following verses of I Thessalonians
v., specially noting the force of the "and"
in verse 23 : — -
1st — Let us not sleep as do others.
2nd — Let us watch.
3rd — Let us be sober.
4th — Let us put on the breast plate
■ of faith and love.
5 th — Let us put on an helmet, the
'hope of salvation.
6th^Let us exhort one another.
7th — Let us edify one another, even
.as also ye do.
8th — Let us know them which labour
among us.
9th — Let us esteem them very highly
dn love for their work's sake. "
1 0th — Let us be at peace among
ourselves.
nth — Let us warn them that are
-unruly.
I2th — ^Let us comfort the feeble
Tiiinded.
13th — Let us support the weak.
14th — Let us be patient towards all
-men.
15th — Let us see that none render
■evil for evil unto any.
l6th — Let us ever follow that which
is good among ourselves and to all.
17th — Let us rejoice evermore.
i8th — Let us pray without ceasing.
19th — Let us in every thing give thanks.
20th~Let us quench not the Spirit.
2 1st — Let us not despise prophesying.
22nd — Let us prove all things.
23rd — Let us hold fast that which is
vgood.
24th — Let us abstain from every ap-
pearance of evil. And the very God
of peace will sanctify us wholly.
Do you say, Who is sufficient for
these things? I answer, God, our God ;
all our sufficiency is of God. Take
from Him then, beloved, streu'jth you
have not. All He wants to use is our
weakness, not our strength. Ce strong
m the Lord and in the power of His
might. (Eph. vi. 10.) As you trusted
Him for your eternal salvation, so trast
Him with your present salvation, your
salvation over sin. It is God which
worketh in you both to will and to do
of His good pleasure. (Phil. ii. 13.)
Let holiness to the Lord be in the fore-
front of you always and everywhere.
(Matt. V. 48 ; Rom. xii. i ; i Cor. iii. 17 ;
Eph. i. 4; Col. i. 21, &c.; 2 Timothy i.
9; I Peter i. 13 to 16, and 2 Peter iii.
II, &c.)
SANCTIFICATION.
Leviticus xx. 7 ; John xvii. 17 ; i
Thessalonians v. 23 ; Hebrews xiii. 12 ;
Isaiah xiii, 3 ; Acts xx. 32 ; Romans xr.
16 ; I Corinthians i. 2 ; Acts xxvi. 18 ;
I Corinthians vi. II ; Hebrews ii. ii ;
Hebrews x. 10, 14 ; i Corinthians i. 30 :
I Thessalonians iv. 3, 4; 2 Thessalonians
ii. 13; I Peter i. 2.
HOLY LIVING OR SELF EX-
AMINATION.
Am I now living in the favor of God ?
2 Cor. vi. 2; Rom. viii. 15, 16.
Am I going on to holiness? 2 Petei
iii. 18.
•Do I intentionally aim to please God
in all things? Psa. Ixvi. 18; i Sam. ii. 3.
Am 1 cultivating a constant sense of
the presence of God? Gen. xvi. 13.
Do I read and love the Scriptures
more than any other book ? Psa. i. 2.
Do I anxiously redeem the time ? Eph.
V. 15, 16.
Do I study not to be conformed to
this world? Rom. xii. 2.
Do I regtilarly and faithfully examine
myself. 2 Cor. xiii. 5.
196
NOTES FOR 3IBLE READINGS.
Do I meditate much upon the joys of
heaven ? Col. iii. 1-3.
Do I live in the spirit of prayer ? Eph.
vi. 18.
Do I deny myself for Clirist's sake ?
Mark viii. 34.
Do I love my Saviour Christ with all
my heart ? Matt. xxii. 37.
Is the reproach of Christ dearer to
me than the applause of the world ?
Heb. xi. 24-26.
Do I set my affections upon things
above ? Matt. vi. 21. •
Do I delight more to obtain poverty
of spirit than the riches of this world ?
Mark viii. 35-38.
Am I constantly employed for God ?
John ix. 4.
Would I rather die than sin ? Matt.
V. 29.
Am I increasing in spiritual minded-
ness ? Matt. v. 6.
Do I delight in God more than I ever
did ? Psa. xxxvii. 4.
Am I dying daily to sensible objects,
and living for eternity ? 2 Cor. iv. 17, 18.
Is the thought of death pleasing and
comforting to me? Phil. i. 23.
Is it a part of my study ".o accomplish
much for God in a little time ? 2 Tim.
iv. 2, 6. 8.
Are my tastes and dispositions more
heavenly than formerly ? Ps, xxxiv. 8.
Do I relish religious conversation
most ? Mai. iii. i5.
Do I love best the company of the
pious ? Psa. xvi. 2,3.
Do I seek opportunities of gaining
and doing good ? i Cor. x. 33.
Am I afraid of misemploying my
talents? Matt. xxv. 16, 19, 21.
Do I exercise all my influence for
God? Psa. ci.
Am I carefully solicitous as to my ex-
ample? Matt. v. 16.
Do I reprove sin without respect of
persons? Psa. cxli. 5 ; Eph. v. 11.
Am 1 doing all in my power to save
souls ? Jer. ix. i ; Psa. cxvi. 12.
Do I regularly pray for the prosperity
of the church, and ^he conversion of the
world? Pse. xxvin. q : Matt. ix. 36-38.
Do I leave nothing undone to promote
Christ's kingdom upon earth? Matt,
xxv. 29, 30.
Have my last days been my best
days? Psa. xc. 12.
Have I that faith in Christ which
realizes a present salvation ? 2 Cor. xiii. 5.
Have I that love to God which ccjn-
strains to obedience? 2 Cor. v. 14, 15,
Does the Spirit of God bear testi-
mony to my acceptance with him ? Rom
viii. 16.
Am I sowing to the flesh, or to the
Spirit ? Gal. vi. 7, 8.
Do I grow in grace and in the know-
ledge of Christ Jesus? 2 Pet. iii. 18.
Do I love the Sabbaths and ordinances
of God? Psa. xxvi. 18.
Am I never absent from the house of
God when I could be present ? Psalm
cxxii. I.
Do I visit and pray with the sick, the
poor, and the destitute? Job xxix.' 11-16.
Do I cultivate a spirit of deep hu-
mility ? I Pet. V. 5, 6 ; Matt. v. 3.
Do I study to understand the word of
God? John v. 39.
Do I carefully heed the voice of con-
science? 2 Cor. i. 12.
Do I watchfully guard against light-
ness of spirit? I Pet. iv. 7.
Do I always bear in mind my final
account ? Luke xvi. 2.
Am I dafly living in the spirit of sac-
rifice? Rom. xii. i.
Do I watch in the world for moments
of inward communion with God ? Psa.
iv. 4 ; xvi. 8.
Do I always attend to the inward
monitions of the Holy Spirit? Eph. iv.30.
Do I always remember the omnisci-
ence of God ? Psa. cxxxix. 1-12.
Do I carefully abstain from speaking
or hearing evil of others ? Psa. xv. 1-3 ,
James iv. 11.
Have I done anything this day to save
souls from death ? James v. 19, 20.
Were I sure of dying this day, what
should I immediately do? Isa. xxxvii:.
I ; Amos iv. 12.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
197
HEAVEN.
Heaven is our Father's house. John
xiv. 2 ; Isaiah Ixiii. 15 ; ist clause i
Kings viii. 30 ; Matt.xxiii.g ; vi.g ; vii.ii.
The home of Jesus. Whence He
came, John iii. 13 ; vi.38.
Whither He has returned. John xx.
17 ; Acts iii. 21 ; Heb. ix, 24.
Whence He shall come again, i Thess.
i. 10 ; iv. 16.
The place from which the Spirit
proceeds. John i. 32 ; Acts ii. 2 ; i
Peter i. 12.
The source of all earthly good. John
iii. 27 ; Tames i. 17.
The future abode of all believers.
John xiv. 2,3:2 Cor. v. i ; Heb, xi. 10.
The blessedness of heaven consists
In freedom from sin. Psalm xvii. 15 ;
1 John iii. 2 ; Rev. xxi. 27.
Freedom from pain and sorrow. Rev.
vii. 15-17 ; xxi. 4.
In being with Jesus. John xii. 26 ;
Phil. i. 23 ; I Thess. iv. 17.
Seeing His glory. John xvii. 24 ;
Rev. xxii. 4.
Receiving His reward. Matt. v. 12.
This reward is represented as
An inheritance. Acts xxvi. 18; Col.
i. 12 ; I Peter i. 4 ; Rev. xxi. 7.
A prize. Phil. iii. 14.
A rest. Heb. iv. 9 ; Rev. xiv. 13.
A kingdom. Matt. xxv. 34 ; Luke
xxii, 29, 30.
A crown, i Cor. ix. 25 ; James i. 12;
Rev. ii. 10, last clause ; 2 Tim. iv. 8
1 Peter v. 4.
Fulness of knowledge, i Cor. xiii.12.
Fulness of life. Matt. xxv. 46.
Fulness of joy. Psalm xvi. 11.
Christians should rejoice because their
iiames are now written in heaven.
Luke X. 20 ; Heb. xii. 23.
Strive to lay up treasure there. Matt,
vi. 19, 20 ; Luke xii. 33.
KINGDOM OF GOD— KINGDOM
OF HEAVEN.
To be sought for. Matt, vi, 33 ; Luke
xii. 31 ; Matt. vi. 9, 10 ; Luke xi. 2.
Its nature. John xviii. 36; Luke xvii.
21 ; I Cor. iv. 20 ; Luke xviii. 29, 30 ;
Rom. xiv. 17.
Hidden to some. Matt. xiii. 11 ;
Mark iv. 11 ; Luke viii. 10
Its approach. Luke xvii. 20 ; Matt.
xxiv. 14; Luke xix. 11; xxii. 16, 18 ;
Matt. xxvi. 29 ; Mark xiv. 25 ; Matt,
xxi. 31.
Who enter. Matt. vii. 21 ; v. 19, 20;
xix. 24; Gal. V. 19, 21 ; Eph. v. 5 ; i
Cor. vi. 9, 10 ; James ii. 5 ; Matt. v. 3,
10; Luke X. 20; Mark x. 14, 15; Acts
xiv. 22 ; Matt. xvi. 19.
Similitudes. Matt, xiii., xviii.. xx.
xxii., xxv ; Mark iv ; Luke xiii., xix., etc.
Warnings. Matt. xxi. 43 ; Luke xiii.
28, 29; Matt. viii. 11, 12 ; Luke ix, 62 ;
Matt. xxi. 31, 32; xviii. 1-4; John iii.
3. 5-
Exhortation, i Thess. ii. 11, 12; 2
Peter i. 10, 1 1 ; Heb. xii. 28.
THE FELICITY OF HEAVEN.
Heaven is not aU unknown ; some-
thing is revealed. We can here only
refer to, without stopping to explain,
certain passages of Scripture which
describe it, and give the substance of
them. It will consist of the moral
perfection of the soul.
Its perfect knowledge, i Cor. xiii.12.
Its perfect holiness. Eph. v. 27.
Its perfect love, i John iv. 17.
Its perfect likeness to Christ, i John
iii. 2.
The physical perfection of the body
in incorruptibility, immortality, glory,
and spirituality, i Cor. xv. 42-44.
The presence of God in the full
manifestation of His glory. Rev.xxii.4.
The beatific vision of Christ. John
xvii. 24 ; I Thess. iv. 17, 18.
The society of angels and all the
redeemed. Heb. xii. 22-24.
The joint worship of the heavenly
hosts. Rev. iv. 5-1 1.
The perfect service of Christ without
interruption, imperfection, or cessation.
Rev. xxii. 3.
Complete freedom from pain, toil,
hunger, thirst, anxietv, fear, sorrow, and
death. Rev. vi. 1.5-17 ; xxi. 4.
Such are the substantials of heavenly
felicit}-. Take any one of them by
itself and each is heaven ; and taking
them all together, what a heaven — how
pure, how elevated, how felicitous. To
believe them is nearly all we can do, and
wait for their meaning hereafter.
J. A. Tames.
1 98
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
DAYS OF HEAVEN UPON THE
EARTH.
(Deut. xi. 21.)
What the Christian's life now should be
and may be.
1. We may A^r^ enjoy the certainty of
the right of entrance into heaven. John
iv. 24 ; Rev, xxii. 14. "Do His com-
mandments^' is, in the original, "have
washed their robes."
2. '* Believing on Him" — "our robes
washed" — "we give thanks to the Fath-
er, who hatk made us meet to be partak-
ers of the inheritance of the saints in
light." Col, i. 12, 13. .
3. With Christ received, the Holy
Spirit makes us ' ' new creatures" in de-
sires, hopes, and practice. 2 Cor. v. 17;
Rev. xxi. 4. And we enjoy now what
we look forward to above, all centered
in the Lord Jesus Himself.
4. Thejt '* the Lamb shall feed them."
Rev. vii. 17 ; Psa. xxxvi. 8.
5. Now, "I am the Bread of life ; he
that cometh to Me shall never hunger."
John vi. 35 ; X, 9 ; Psa. xxiii. 2, 5.
6. Then " the Lamb shall lead them
unto living fountains of waters." Rev.
vii. 17 ; Psa. xxxvi. 8.
7. Now, " Whosoever drinketh of the
water that I shall give him shall never
thirst." John iv. 10, 14 ; Rev. xxi. 6.
9. Then, " we shall" join in the "new
song" of redemption and cleansing. Rev.
xiv. 3 ; V. 9.
8. Now we may begin that same "new
song" of praise for present salvation.
Psa. xl. 3 : xcviii. i, 2,
10. Then they '•^follow the Lamb
whithersoever He goeth." Rev. xiv. 4.
11. Now, " Be ye followers of God,
as dear children." "Follow thou Me."
" Caleb followed Me fully." Eph. v. i ;
John xxi. 22 ; Num. xiv. 24.
12. Then "His servants shall serve
Him" — " day and night in His Temple."
Rev. xxii. 3 ; vii. 15.
13. A^o-iv, "the servants of Christ,
doing the will of God from the heart."
"Ye serve the Lord Christ." Eph. vi.
6 ; Col. iii. 24 ; John xii. 26 ; Psa.
cxxxiv. I.
14. Then " His name shall be in thei»
foreheads." Rev. xxii. 4.
15. Here ^'manifestly declared to be
the epistle of Christ." "Called Chris-
tians,^* 2 Cor. iii. 3 ; Acts xi. 26 ; iv. 13,
16. Then "the Lamb is the Light
thereof." Rev. xxi. 23.
17. Now "I am the Light of the
world ; he that followeth Me shall not
walk in darkness, but shall have the
Light of Life." John viii. I2 ; Eph. v.
8, II.
18. Then ♦* in Thy presence is /«/«<?«:
of joy." Psa. xvi. 11.
19. Now, " These things have I spok-
en unto you, that My joy might remain:
in you, and that your joy might be full.*'
John XV. II ; xvii. 13 ; i Thes. v. 16.
20. Then all enemies destroyed : per-
fect peace, for He is owned as "King oi
kings, and Lord of lords." Rev. xix. 6.
21. Now, "Thou wilt keep him irt
perfect peace whose mind is stayed iiip
Thee." Isa. xxvi. 3 ; xlviii. 18 ; Johre
xiv. 27.
22. Then "they.. rest from their la-
bours." "There remameth a rest to the
people of God." Rev. xiv. 13; Heb. iv.9.
23. Now " we which have believed do
enter into rest." Come unto Me, ..and
I will give you rest." Heb. iv. 3 ; Matt.,
xi. 28.
24. Then it is round Him — Jesus Him-
self— the grand ingathering is. The
Lamb in the midst." Rev. vii. 9, 17 ;
Gen. xlix. lO.
25. Now, it \s in His Name we meet
— His name our link — "Jesus in the
midst." John xx. 19, 26 ; Matt, xviii. 20f
26. T/^^« the central joy is, "they shall^
see His face.** Rev. xxii. 4 ; Job xix.
26, 27.
27. Now ''v/e see Jesus.** "Looking
unto Jesus." I have set the Lord always
before me." Heb. ii. 9 ; xii. 2 ; Psa.
xvi. 8.
28. Then the result of seeing Him. is —
" we shall be like Him, for we shall see
Him as He is." 1 Tohn »ii. 2-
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
199
29. Now the result is the same — " we
. . be/wlding, are changed into the same
image." 2 Cor. iii. 18.
30. Then the crowning joy of all will
be His eternal, unclouded presence.
"God Himself shall be with them." '■' So
shall we ever be with the Lord !" Rev.
xxi. 3 ; I Thes. iv. 17 ; John xvii, 24.
31. Now we may enjoy and live in
that same joy. " Lo I am with you
ALWAY." Matt, xxviii. 20; Heb. xiii.
5,6.
" Thy will be done on earth, AS IT is
in Heaven !"
" Who is sufficient for these things ?"
" Our sufficiency is of God." 2 Cor. ii.
16 ; iii. 5. F. .
PRAYER.
Jas. i, 17; Matt. vii. 7; Matt. vii. 8 ;
Psalm cxxi. i, 2.
Who may pray. Matt. xi. 28 ; Rev.
xxii. 17 ; Acts ii. 21 ; Psalm Ixv. 2 ;
Ixxxvi. 5.
How to pray. Ecc, v. 2 ; Psalm
ix. 12 ; Heb. xi. 6 ; Rom. viii. 26 ; James
v. 16 ; Matt. xxvi. 39 ; Mark xi. 25, 26 ;
Dan. ix. 4. 5 ; Phil. iv. 6 : John xiv. 14 ;
Eph. vi. 18 ; Matt. vi. g, 13.
When to pray. Psalm 1 v. 17; Isaiah
xxvi. 9 ; Col. iv. 2 ; I Thess. v. 17 ;
Psalm 1. 15 ; Luke xviii. i ; Isaiah Iv. 6;
2 Cor. vi. 2.
Encouragements to pray. Psalm cxlv.
18, 19 ; Isaiah Ixv. 24 ; Rom, x. 12 ;
Matt, xviii. 9 ; Matt. vii. 8 ; i Chron.
xxviii. 9 ; Heb. x. 22, 23 ; John xvii ; ix.
20 ; Heb. vii. 25.
Answered prayers. Exodus xvii. 5,6 ;
I Kings xviii. 38, 39 ; James v. 17, 18.
PRAYER.
1. Remember whatever we pray for
should interest and deeply concern us.
Examples: Gen. xxxii. 9-12,24,26;
I Sam. i. ID ; Dan. ii. 17, i8 ; Dan. ix.
17-20 ; Matt. XV. 22, 25 ; Luke viii. 24,
41 ; Matt. xxvi. 38.
2. We must feel that of ourselves we
are utterly unable to accomplish what
we want.
Examples : Psa. cxxiv. 2 ; Dan.ii. 18 ;
Matt. viii. 24 ; Jno. xv. 5.
3. We must feel that God is interested
and concerned in what interests and
concerns us.
Examples: Gen. xxi. 12-20; Psalm
cxlvi. 7, 8, 9 ; Psa. cxlvii. 9 ; Matt. vi.
28 ; I Tim. ii. 3,4;! Peter v, 6, 7.
4. We must feel that God is able to
do all we ask of Him.
Examples: Jer. xxxii. 17, 18; Mark
ix. 19 ; Matt. xix. 26.
,5. We must feel that God is acce^.'.hle
or open to receive us.
Examples : Eph. ii. 11-13 ; Matt. xi. 28.
John vi. 37. J. C. Douglass.
JESUS THE MAN OF PRAYER.
1. At baptism : while praying Holy
Ghost came upon Him. Luke iii. 21-22.
2. After He had healed many sick.
Mark i. 35.
3. When His fame spread and multi-
tudes came to hear. Luke v. 16.
4. When enemies sought to destroy
Him and before appointing disciples.
Luke vi. 2-12.
5. When He had fed 5,000. Mark
xiv. 21-23.
6. When praying alone, told His
disciples He must be rejected and slain.
Luke ix. 18.
7. When He was transfigured. Luke
ix. 28.
8. At the grave of Lazarus. Johnxi.41.
9. When He taught His disciples to
pray. Luke. xi. i.
10. When His soul was troubled.
John xii. 27,
1 1 . When about to leave His disciples
in a world of tribulation. John xvii.
12. In the garden of Gethsemane.
Matt. xxvi. 36.
13. For His malefactors. Luke
xxiii. 34.
14. Jesus resigned His breath in
prayer. Luke xxiii. 46.
POSITIONS IN PRAYER.
The publican, standing ; Job, sitting,
Joi ii. 8 ; Hezekiah, lying on his bed,
2 Kings XX. 2 ; Elijah, with his face
between his legs, i Kings xviii. 42 ; Paul
kneeling, Eph. iii. 42. Fuller.
200
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
PRAYER.
ITymn. What a friend we have in
Jesus.
Model. Matt. vi. 9-13.
Commanded. Isaiah Iv. 6 ; Matt. vii.
7 ; Phil. iv. 6.
Offered through Christ. Eph. ii. 18 ;
Heb. X. 19.
In faith.. Heb. x. 22.
In full assurance of faith. Heb.xi.6.
With confidence in God. John v. 14.
With boldness. Heb. iv. 16.
Watchfulness. Luke xxi. 36.
With obedience. John ix. 31.
Shortness of time a motive, i Pet.iv.7.
Christ present. Matt, xviii. 20.
God's willingness to give. Matt.vii.ii.
Paul and Silas. Acts. xvi. 25.
Without ceasing, i Thess. v. 17.
Hymn. Prayer is the soul's sincere
desire. W. H. Grimes, M.A.
PRAYER.
Call upon Him. Isaiah Iv. 6.
Lifting up holy lands, i Tim. ii. 8.
I will be enquired of. Ezek.xxxvi.37.
I am poor and needy. Psalm Ixxxvi.i.
He besought the Lord, 2 Chron.
xxxiii. 12, 13.
In my name. John xvi. 23.
The Spirit helpeth, Rom. viii, 26.
When ye pray, say. Luke xi. 1-4.
According to His will, i John v. 1 4-15.
Let us come boldly. Heb. iv. 16.
In everything. Phil. iv. 6.
Ought always to pray. Luke xviii. i;
Eph. vi. 18.
PRAYER
Call upon Me in the day of trouble :
I will deliver thee. Psalm 1. 15.
Open thy mouth wide, and I will fill
it. Psalm Ixxxi. 10.
The Lord is nigh unto all them that
call upon Him, to all that call upon Him
in truth. Psalm cxlv. 18.
Then shalt thou call, and the Lord
shall answer: thou shalt cry, and He
shall say, here I am. Isaiah Iviii. 9.
I sought the Lord, and He heard me,
and delivered me from all my fears.
Psalm xxxiv. 4.
I love the Lord because He hath
heard my voice and my supplications.
Psalm cxvi. i.
In the day when I cried, Thou
answeredst me. Psalm cxxxviii. 3.
Seek ye the Lord while He may be
found, call ye upon Him while He is
near. Isaiah Iv. 6.
EXCEEDING GREAT AND
PRECIOUS PROMISES.
The following are some of the exceed-
ing great and precious promises (i Peter
i. 4) given by our Everlasting Father
(Isa. ix. 6) for the comfort, stability,
and security of all that believe on Jesus '
to everlasting life (John v. 24), and
which are mentioned in the Word of
God as being Everlasting : —
Everlasting Love. Jer. xxxi. 3.
Everlasting Salvation. Is. xlv. 17.
Everlasting Righteousness. Psalm
cxix. 142.
Everlasting Covenant. Isaiah Iv. 3 ;
2 Sam. xxiii. 5.
Everlasting Kindness, Is. liv. 8.
Everlasting Joy. Is.xxxv. 10; Is. li.ii.
Everlasting Consolation. 2 Thess.
ii. 16,
Everlasting Way. Ps. cxxxix. 24.
Everlasting Remembrance. Psalm
cxii, 6.
Everlasting Sign. Is. Iv. 13.
Everlasting Children. E,ph. i. 4. 5.
Everlasting Life. John vi. 47.
Everlasting Light. Is. Ix. ig, 20.
Everlasting Mercy. Ps.ciii. 17; cvi.i.
Everlasting Arms. Deut. xxxiii. 27.
Everlasting Strength. Is. xxvi, 4.
Everlasting Kingdom. 2 Peter i. 1 1 ;
Ps. cxiv. 13.
Everlasting Testimonies. Ps. cxix. 144.
Everlasting Word. Isaiah xl. 8,
Everlasting God. Ps. viii. 23 ; Ps. xc.2.
" Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and
to-day, and forever." Hebrews xiii. 8
PROMISES.
Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name,
&c., &c. — ^John xiv. 13.
If ye shall ask anything, &c. — ^John
xiv. 14; John XV. 7 ; John xv. 16 ; John
xvi. 23, 24 ; Matthew vii. 7 ; Matthew
xxi. 22 ; I John iii. 22 ; i John v, 14, 15.
PROMISES.
John xvi. 23, 24 ; John xiv. 2, 3 ; John
v. 24 ; John i. 12 ; i John i. 8, 9 ; Rev.
xiv. 13 ; Ezekiel xxxvi. 26, 27 ; Rom.
vi. 23 ; John ix. 31.
Whatever ye shall ask in my name,
&c., &c. John xiv. 13.
If ye shall ask anything, &c. John
xiv. 14; John XV. 7; John xv. 16; John
xvi. 23, 24 ; Matt. vii. 7 ; Matt. xxi. 22
I John iii. 22 ; i John v. 14, 15.
NOTES FOK BliiLh- ixi:.ADli\Gi>.
20 1
_^ux^i..Y PROMISES.
a. Peace. John xiv. 27.
:2. The Comforter John xiv. 26.
3. Will never leave. Heb. xiii. 5.
4. All things are ours, i Cor. iii. 21.
5. I will be your God. 2 Cor. vi. 16.
6. Lo, I am with you alway. Matt,
."xxviii. 20.
7. The Lord knoweth them that are
His. 2 Tim. ii. 19.
8. I go to prepare a place for you.
John xiv. 2.
9. Where I am, there shall My ser-
•vant be. John xii 26.
10. And whosoever liveth and be-
•lieveth in Me shall never die. John xi.26.
11. Who of God is made unto us
Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification,
. J Redemption, i Cor. i. 30.
12. All the promises of God are yea,
and Amen, in Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 1. 20.
He is faithful that promised. Heb.
X. 23.
What He hath promised. He is able
c-also to perform. Kom. iv. 21.
"ALL."
All the promises of God in Him,
'^nr. i. 20.
Forgiveth all thine iniquities, Psalm
.uiii, 3.
Cleanseth from all sin, i John i. 7.
Casting all your care on Him, i Pet,
'V. 7.
Count it all joy, James 1. 2.
God is able to make all grace abound
".towards you, 2 Cor, ix. 8.
All things are yours, i Cor. iii. 21.
Freely give us all things, Rom. viii. 32.
Able to quench all the fiery darts,
JEph. vi. 16.
All things are possible to him that
■ belie veth, Mark ix. 23.
The Lord shall preserve thee from all
'«vil, Psa. cxxi. 7.
All fair, Song iv. 7.
All came to pass, Joshua xxi. 45.
That He might redeem us from all
Iniquity. Titus ii. 14.
JUSTIFICATION.
We are justified by God, the author
!of it, Rom. iii. 26.
We are justified by grace, the spring
of it, Rom. iii. 24.
We are justified by blood, the ground
of it, Rom. V. 9.
We are justified by resurrection, the
•acknowledgment of it, Rom. iv. 25.
We are justified by faith, the prin-
<:iple of it, Rom. v. i.
FROM THE MIDST OF THE
CLOUD.
The law given, Ex. xix. 9.
Israel guided, Ex. xiii. 21.
God's presence revealed, Ex. xl. 34.
In the cioud Christ transfigured, Luke
ix. 28.
In the cloud He ascended. Acts i. 9.
In the cloud His saints shall be rapt,
Thess. iv. 17.
In tke cloud shall return with saints.
Rev. i. 7.
JUSTIFICATION.
Before God — By Blood. Heb. ix.
22. No remission, without shedding of
blood. Lev. xvii. II. The life is in the
blood, Ex. xii. 13. When I see the
blood, Heb. ix. 7-9. High-priest with
blood, a figure, Heb. ix. 11, 12. Christ
by His own blood. Rom. v. 9. Justified
by His blood. Acts xx. 28. Purchased
by His own blood, i Pet. i. 19. Re-
deemed with precious blood. Col. i. 20.
Made peace through blood and by im-
puted righteousness. Isaiah liii. ii.
By his knowledge justify many. Isaiah
liv. 17. Their righteousness is of Me.
Jer. xxiii. 6. The Lord our righteous-
ness.
Realized by Faith. — Eph. u. ii.
Not of yourselves : gift of God. Rem.
iii. 26. Justifier of him that believeth-
Acts xiii. 39. Justified from all things.
Rom. V. \. Have peace with God.
Manifested by Works. — Eph. ii. 10.
His workmanship. Phil. ii. 13. God
which worketh in you. Jas. ii. 18, 24,
26. Show faith by works. Matt. v. 16.
Men see good works : glorify Fathev.
I Pet. ii. 9. Show forth praises of Him
who. has called you.
JUSTIFICATION.
I Cor. vi. 9-1 1.
Who are justified — Rom. ii. 13 ; iii.
20 ; Psa. xiv. 2, 3.
How obtained — Rom. viii. 3-5 ; 2 Cor.
v. 21 ; James ii. 21 ; Rom. iv. 2 ; Gal.
iii. II, 24; ii. 16; Isaiah liii, 11 ; Rom.
iii. 24, 26 ; Titus iii. 5-7 ; Rom. xL 6.
2q:
NOTES FOR BIBLE READING^..
BEING JUSTIFIED.
By blood — we have salvation from
wrath, Rom. v. 9.
By faith — peace with God, Rom. v. i.
By grace — heirs of heaven, Titus iii. 7.
By works — reward, James ii. 24.
PARDON.
Read Luke xv, 20-24.
Pardon promised. Isa. i. 18 ; Jer.
xxxi. 34 ; Heb. viii. 12 ; Jer. 1. 20.
No pardon without shedding of blood.
Lev. xvii. 11 ; Heb. ix. 22.
Legal sacrifices ineffectual. Heb. x.4.
Outward cleansing ineflfectual. Job
IX. 30, 31 ; Jer. ii. 22.
The blood of Christ alone is efficacious.
Zech. xiii, i ; i John i. 7.
Pardon is granted by God alone. Dan.
ix, 9 ; Mark ii. 7.
Through the blood of Christ. Matt,
xxvi. 28 ; Rom. iii. 25 ; Col, i. 14.
According to the riches of his grace.
Eph. i. 7.
Freely. Isa. xliii. 25.
Readily. Neh. ix. 17 ; Psa. Ixxxvi, 5.
Abundantly. Isa. Iv. 7 ; Rom, v. 20,
Who confess their sins. 2 Sam. xii.
13 ; Psa. xxxii. 5 ; i John i. 9.
BLOTTED OUT.
1. Sinners blotted out. Ex. xxxii. 33.
2. Prayer for sins to be blotted out.
Psalm Ii. 1-9.
3. God only can blot out sin. Isaiah
xliii. 25.
4. Repentance and conversion neces-
sary that sins may be blotted out. Acts
iii. 19.
5. Sin has been blotted out. Isaiah
xliv, 22.
6. Sin blotted out on the Cross.
Col, A. 14.
7. The believer not blotted out of
the Book of Life. Rev. iii, 5. S.R.B.
PEACE.
. Isa. xlv. 7 j Job xxii. 21 ; Job xxxiv.
29 ; Isa. ix. 6-7 ; John xvi. 33 ; Eph. ii.
14-17 ; Rom. v. i ; Rom. i. 7 j Prov. iii.
17 ; James iii. 17-18 ; Isa. xxx. 15 ;
Luke vii. 50 ; Heb. xii. 14 ; i Pet, v.14;
Psalms Ixxxv. 8 ; Isa. liv. 10; xxxii. 17,
18; Phil. iv. 9; Isa. liv. 13 ; Psalms
cxix. 165 ; Isa. xxvi. 3, 4 ; Isa. xlviii.18 ;
John xiv. 27 ; Phil. iv. 7 ; i Thess. v.
23 ; 2 Thess. iii. 16.
PEACE.
Peace with God, forgiveness of sinst.
Rom. V. I.
Peace of God, God-like peace. PhiL.
iv. 7.
In peace, God-like spirit. 2 Cor_
xiii. II.
A PRECIOUS THOUGHT.
The mainspring, centre and source is.
Jesus. I Peter ii. 6, 7.
Precious blood, i Peter i. 19.
Precious faith. 2 Peter i. i.
Precious promises. John xiv. 3 ; i,.
iii. 21 ; Matt. xi. 28 ; Mai. iii. 17.
PEACE.
Reconciliation with God. Satisfac-
tion for sin, made by Christ for us ; and
our sense of it, which is the gift of God,
wrought in us by the Holy Ghost.
1 . The God of Peace. Phil. iv. 9.
2. Has thoughts of Peace. Jer..
Luke
XXIX. II.
3. Peace announced on earth,
ii. 14.
4. Peace made by the blood of Christ..
Col. i 20.
5. The chastisement of our peace-
was upon him. Isa. liii. 5.
6. In Him righteousness and peace
kissed each other. Psa. Ixxxv. 10.
7. Proofs of peace . John xx. 19,20.
8. Peace preached by the Holy Ghost..
Acts X. 36; Eph. ii. 77
9. Christ is our peace. Eph, ii. 14.-
10. Peace comes by believing. Rom '
XV. 13.
11. It follows faith. Rom. v. i.
12. Christ maintains our peacfe,.
PhiL iv. 7
BLESSED.
1. Blessed is he whose transgression-
is forgiven. Psalm xxxii i.
2 . Blessed is he that considereth the-
poor. Psalm xii. i
3. Blessed is he that waiteth. Dan,
xii 12
4. Blessed is he that cometh in the-
name of the Lord. Matt. xxi. 9.
5. Blessed is he that readeth Rev. i. -..
6. Blessed is he that blesseth thee,,
and cursed is he that curseth thee.
Num. xxiv. 9.
7. Blessed is he that watcheth. Rev^
xvi. 15.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
2C3
THE ASSURANCE OF THE
WORLD, OR SEVEN THINGS THE
WORLD KNOWS OF CHRIST.
HYPOCRITES.
1. We know that thou art true.
2. We know that thou teachest the
way of God in tnith.
3. We know that thou neither carest
for any man. Matt. xxii. 16.
SINCERE SEEKERS.
4. W^e know that thou art a teacher
come from God. John iii. 2.
LIARS AND BLASPHEMERS.
5. We know whence he is, (see John
ix. 29). John vii. 27.
6. We know that thou hast a deviL
John viii. 52.
7. We know that this man is a sinner.
John ix. 24. J. McK.
DELIVER.
1. Deliver me from all my transgres-
sions. Ps. xxxix. 8.
2. Deliver me from the hand of mine
enemies. Ps. xxxi. 15.
3. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O
God. Ps. li. 14.
4. Deliver me from the deceitful and
unjust man. Ps. xliii. i.
5. Deliver me from evil work. 2
Tim. iv. 18.
6. Deliver me from the oppression of
man. Ps. cxix. 134.
7. Deliver me from the body of this
death. Rom. vii. 24.
JOY IN HIM.
Oh, there is so much said about joy,
for God has given us such a portion in
Himself as the heart cannot contain.
Think of it — Himself^ " a well of water
springing up into everlasting life." John
iv. 14.
Let us see where joy is to be with us.
The source is above — in the Father, the
Son, and the Holy Ghost. It flows
down and springs up in us first in our
soul. "My soul shall be joyful in the
Lord." Ps. XXXV. 9 ; and then it bursts
forth in the heart: "My servant shall
sing for joy oi hearth Isa. Ixv. 14; then
it flows out in praise. ."My mouth shall
praise thee with joyful /zj>j." Ps. Ixiii. 5 ;
and the feet are strengthened and ' ' leap
for joy." Luke vi. 23, and "everlasting
joy is on their heads." Isa. li. 11.
It does not cease because of earth's-
sorrows and troubles, for even "the
widow's heart sings for joy." Job xxix.
13-
"They that sow in tears shall reap in
joy," Ps. cxxvi. 5 ; and He gives them
" the oil of joy for mourning," Isa. Ixi. 3.
He even "turns their mourning into-
joy," Jer. xxxi. 13. The Lord Jesus,
"for \}a& joy that was set before Him,
endured the cross," Heb. xii ; and there-
fore tells His disciples that '■'■ their sor-
row shall be turned into joy," John xvi.
20. All this because our joy is to be iit
the Lord, and not in self, not in any-
other.
THE JOY OF THE LORD.
"My meditation of Him shall be
sweet," such was my experience in
meditating of " The Church " as an " oc-
casion ^i joy to Christ.''*
1. Before the foundation of the world,
when, as in the counsels of His own
heart. He '■'■found the treasure ; " and for
joy thereof He went and sold all that
He had and bought it. Matt. xiii. 45, 46.
2. When the world was made, He re-
joiced in "the habitable part of the
earth ; and His delights were with the
sons of men." Prov. viii.
3. When He finds His lost sheep. He
lays it on His shoulders rejoicing. " I
have meat to eat that ye know not of.""
John iv. 32.
4. When He rejoices in the obedience
of His children. "If thine heart be
wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.'*^
Prov. xxiii. 15.
5. When He comes for us it will be
with a shout of joy and victory.
6. When He presents us to the Father
it will be with exceeding joy. Jude 24.
7. At the marriage supper. "Let us.
be glad and rejoice." Rev. xix. 7.
8. At the throne of glory. "With
gladness and rejoicing shall they be-
.•20/J.
NOTliS FOR BIBLE KEAU1NV-.5.
brought ; they shall enter into the King's
palace." Ps. xlv. 15.
And may we constantly remember that
' It was for the joy set before Him, He
'endured the cross, despisuig the shame,
• and is now set down at the right hand of
the throne of God," Heb. xii. 2. And as
we gaze on Him now "Crowned with
,glory and honour," may our gladsome
hearts (made gladsome by Himself) joy-
fully sing, "Worthy is the Lamb that
was slain."
JOY.
Isa. Iv. ia-13 ; Eccl. ii. 26 j Psa. iv.
7 ; Isa. Ixi. 3 ; Gal. v. 22 ; Lev. ii. 10 ;
Neh. viii. 10, li, 12 ; Jer. xv. 16 ; Isa.
XXXV. 10 ; Isa. Iv. 12 ; Eccl. ii. lo-ii ;
Eccl. xi. 8 ; Isa. xxix. 19 ; Psa. xvi. 11 ;
Psa. cxlix. 2 ; Heb. iii. 18 ; Rom. v. 11 ;
Luke i. 47 ; Phil. iii. 3 ; Rom. xiv. 17 ;
Acts viii. 5-8 ; Ps. xxxii. 11 ; Luke vi.
53 ; .1 Pet. i. 18 ; 2 Cor. vi. 10 ; Phil.
►iv. 4 ; I Thes. v. 16; Jas. i. 2 ; Jas. v,
13 ; Eph. V. 19 ; John xvii. 13 ; Heb.
3cii. 2 ; 3 John iv.
J. W, Dean.
JOY.
Reason for true joy. Luke x. 20.
Illustration. Matt. xiii. 44 ; Acts xiii.
.52-
End of the world's joy. Pro. xiv. 13.
World's joy short lived. Job xx. 4, 5.
God's joy in his children. Zeph. iii.
17 ; Isa. Ixii. 5.
PRAISE -REJOICE.
Is good and comely. Ps. xxxiii. 1 ;
•clxvii. I.
With the whole soul. Ps. ciii. i, 2.
Continually. Psa. xxxv. 28 ; i Thess.
v. 16.
More and more. Psa. Ixxi. 14 ; also
•cxlv.
Invite others to. Ps, xxxiv. i, 3 ; xcv.
I, 2.
For present salvation. Isa. xii ; Luke
i. 68, 69.
For all spiritual good. Eph. i. 3.
For all temporal good. Psa. xiii, 6 ;
alfio civ.
In affliction. Acts v. 41 ; Acts xvi.
^5; Rom. V. 3-5 ; Rom. viii. '^'^-■39
WELLS.*
1. Wells of Scripture. Gen. xvi. 14 ;
xxi. 30, 31 ; 2 Sam. xxiii. 15 ; Exod. xv.
27 ; Deut. vi. 11. 2. Well-side conver-
sations. John iv. 6 ; Gen. xxiv. 16, 17 ;
Exod. ii. 15-20 ; Gen. xxi. 25 ; xxvi. 21.
3. Weariness and thirst. John iv. 6 ;
Heb. xii. 3 ; Gal. vi, 9 ; Psa. vi. 6 ; xiii.
1, 2. 4. We Is without water. Jer. xiv.
3 ; Zech. ix. 11 ; Jer. ii. I3 ; 2 Pet. ii
17. 5. Wells of living water. Matt. v.
6 ; John iv. lO ; Isa. xii. 3 ; John vi.
54-56. 6. Water from the Throne.
Rev. xxii. 1 ; Ezek. xlvii. i ; Zech. xiv.
8;- Psa. xlvi. 4, 7. Words of invitation.
Isa. Iv. 1 ; John vii. 37, 38 ; Isa. i. 18 :
Rev. xxi. 6 ; xxii. 17.
Rev. J. H, Vincent, D. D.
VINES.*
I. The Vmes of Canaan. Deut. vi. 11
viii. 8 ; Num. xiii, 23, 24 ; i Kings iv
39. 2. The Vine of Jehovah. John xv
1, 5 ; Isa. iv. 2 ; Jer. xxiii. 5 ; Zech. iii.
8 ; vi. 12. 3. Unfruitful Branches. Jno.
XV. 2, 6 ; Isa. V. 4 ; Matt. xv. 13 ; iii. 8;
xiii. 22. 4. Fruitful Branches. John xv.
2, 5 ; Hos. xiv. 8 ; Phil. i. 11 ; Eph. v.
9 ; Gal. V. 22, 23. 5. Branches cast
forth. Matt. iii. 10; vii. 19 ; Luke xiii.
7 ; Heb. vi. 8. 6. The Husbandman's
Care. John xv. i, 2 ; Isa. v. i, 2 ; Matt,
xiii. 24 ; xxi. 33 ; Heb. xii. 6. 7. The
Husbandman's Glory. John xv. 8 ; Mat.
V. 16 ; I Pet. ii. 12 ; 3 John iv ; i Pet.
ii. 9.
Rev. J. H, Vincent, D. D.
THINGS WORTH KNOWING.
Our state by nature. Rom. vii. 18.
The purpose for which Christ was
manifested, i John iii. 5.
Christ Himself, Johnvi. 69, the wordi
are sure should have been rendered kturui.
John X. 14 ; 2 Tim. 12.
The Holy Spirit. John xiv. 17.
God the Father. John xvii. 3 ; I
John ii. 13.
*From Biblical Explorations by Rev. J. H.
Vincent, D. D,. e " )
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
20 V
The grace of Christ. 2 Cor. viii. 9».
The love of Christ. Eph. iii. 19.
Christ risen. John xxi. 12; Rom. vi.
9; 2 Cor. iv. 14.
The way of justification. Gal. ii, 16,
That we have passed from death unto
life. I John iii. 14.
That our old man was crucified with
Christ. Rom. vi. 6.
Our election of God. i Thess. i. 4.
That we have eternal life, i John v. 13.
The mysteries of Christ's kingdom
and providence. Matt. xiii. 11 ; John
xiii. 7.
That tribulation leads to patience
and experience and hope. Rom. v. 3.
That all things work together for our
good. Rom. viii. 28.
That if death comes we have a house
in heaven. 2 Cor, v. 1,8.
^That resurrection awaits us. John
d. 24.
That in the last days perilous times
shall come, 2 Tim. iii. 1.
That the day of the Lord cometh as
a thief in the night, i Thess. v. 2.
That Christ our life shall appear.
I John iii. 2.
That in heaven we have a better
substance than on earth. Heb. x. 34.
THINGS WORTH HAVING.
Faith in God. Mark xi. 22.
Everlasting life. John iii. 36.
The light of life. John viii. 12.
The commandments of Jesus. John
xiv. 21.
The joy of Jesus, John xvii. 13.
Hope toward God. Acts xxiv. 15.
A conscience void of offence. Acts
xxiv. 16.
Peace with God through our Lord
Jesus Christ. Rom. v, i.
Access by faith into this grace wherein
we stand. Rom,. v. 2.
Fruit unto holiness. Rom. vi. 22.
The first fruits of the Spirit. Rom.
viii. 23.
The Holy Ghost which is in us. i
Cor. vi. 19.
A building of God. 2 Cor. v. i.
God's promises. 2 Cor vii. i.
All sufficiency. 2 Cor. ix. 8.
Redemption through the blood of
Christ. Ev.\. : 7
Access by one Spirit unto the Father..
Eph, ii. 18.
A desire to depart and to be withr
Christ. Phil. i. 23.
The same love. Phil. ii. 2.
Promise of the life that now is, and
of that which is to come, i Tim.iv.8.
A great high priest. Heb. iv. 14.
A strong consolation. Heb. vi. 18.
Hope as an anchor of the souL
Heb. vi. 19.
Boldness to enter into the holiest..
Heb. X. 19.
Fellowship with Him. i John i. 6.
Fellowship one with another. I
John i. 7.
An advocate with the Father. l
John ii. I.
Boldness in the day of judgment, x
John iv. 17.
The petitions that we desire of God..
I John V. 15.
WHOSOEVER.
Condemnation. John viii. 34 ; Rom.
ii. I , James ii. 10 ; i John ii. 23 ; r
John iii. 4 ; i John iii. 10 ; 2 John 9.
Salvation, John iii. 16, John iv. 14;
Luke xii. 8; Acts x. 43 ; Rom. x. 11 ; i
John V. I ; Rev. xxii. 17.
1. We
2. We
3. We
4. We
viii. 14.
5. We
viii. 24,
6. We
7. We
8. We
9. We
10. We
11. We
12. We
WHAT WE ARE.
are born. John i. 12, 13,
are sons, i John iii. 2.
are heirs. Romans viii. 17. ,
are led by the Spirit. Romans
are saved by (in) hope. Rom.-
are made nigh. Eph. ii. 13.
are accepted. Eph. i. 6.
are washed, i Cor. vi. 11.
are justified, i Cor. vi, 11.
are sanctified, i Cor. vi. 11..
are complete in Him. Col.ii.io.
are as He is. i John iv. 17.
WHAT WE HAVE.
1. We have redemption. Eph. i. 7.
2. W^e have eternal life, i John v. 13..
3. We have peace with God. Rom.v.i.
4. We have the Spirit of adoption..
Rom. viii. 15.
5. We have strong consolation. Heb.
vi. 18,
6. We have the first-fruits. Romans
viii. 23.
7. We have such an High Priest.
Heb. viii. i.
206
NOTES FOR 3IBLE READINGS.
WHAT WE KNOW.
1. We know whom we have believed.
12. Tim. i. 12.
2. We know we have a building of
•God. 2 Cor. V. I.
3. We know we have passed from
■death unto life, i John iii. 14.
4. W^e know that all things work to-
gether for good. Rom. viii. 28.
5 . We know that Christ shall appear.
I John iii. 2.
WHAT WE HAVE NOT.
1. We have not attained unto the
resurrection of (or from among) the
dead. Phil. iii. 11.
2. We have not apprehended that
for which we are apprehended of Christ
Jesus.
3. We are not already perfect. Phil,
iii. 12.
These Scriptures are taken in con-
nection with Joshua i. 3 and xiii. i ;
-Gen. xii. 7 ; xiii. 14-17, etc.
LAW AND GRACE.
John i. 17.
Law. — Exodus ii. 12 ; iii. 2-5 ; iv.
1-3; iv. 6; vii. 19-21; x. 22; xi. 4-6;
xix. 16-21; XX. 21, 25, 26; xxxii. 28;
Deut. xxi. 18-21.
Grace. — John i. 4 ; i. 14 ; i. 43 ; iii.
16 ; ii. i-io ; ix. 5-38 ; x. 10, 27-29 ; xiii.
i-io; xiv. 6; Actsii. 41 ; Lukexv. 11-23.
The law can not justify, Acts xiii. 39 ;
nor free us from sin and death, Rom.
-viii. 1-3 ; nor give righteousness, Gal.
ii. 21 ; iii. 21 ; nor make perfect, Heb.
vii. 19 J X. I, 2, What then was the
purpose of the law ? Rom. iii. 19 ; v.
3.Q ; Gal. iii. 19.
WHAT WE KNOW NOT.
1. We know not what we should
pray for as we ought. Rom. viii. 26.
2. We know not that day and that
hour. Mark'xiii. 32.
3. We know not what a day may
bring forth. Prov. xxvii. i.
THINGS WE KNOW,
1. Romans vii. 18, our depravity.
2. I John iii. 5, Christ our Saviour.
3. I Peter i. 18, 19, Redeemed,
purchased.
4. Job xix. 25, Living, InterceedPing,
Advocate.
5. John ix. 14; I John iii. 14, Experi-
mental religion.
6. 2 Timothy i. 12, able to keep.
7. Rom. viii, 28, God's discipline good.
8. 2 Corinthiajis v. i, a home.
I John V. from 11. The seven "we
4cnows." W. R.
ADOPTION.
Eph. ii. I, 3-12 ; Ezek. xvi. 5, 6 ;
Ezek. xvi. 6, 9 ; Jer. iii. 19 ; John i. 12 ;
Eph. iv. 23, 24 ; Eph. v. 29, 30 ; Rom.
viii. 17 ; 2 Peter i. iv.
HOURLY ADMONITIONS.
1. Watch. Mark xiii. 37.
2. Be sober, i Thes. v. 6.
3. Pray without ceasing, i Thes. v. 17.
4. Pray for one another. Jas. v. 16.'
5. Bear ye one another's burdens. Gal.
\i. 2.
6. Set your affections on things above.
Col. iii. 2.
7. And be not conformed to this world.
Rom. xii. 2.
8. Love one another with a pure heart
fervently, i Pet. i, 22.
9. Do all in the name of the Lord
Jesus. Col. iii. 17.
10. Present your bodies a living sacri-
fice, holy, acceptable unto God. Rofn.
xii. I,
11. And whatsoever ye do, do it heart-
ily as to the Lord. Col. iii. 23.
12. Let your moderation be known
unto all men. The Loid is at hand.
Phil. iv. 5.
Exhorting one another daily, and so
much the more, as ye see the day ap-
proaching. Heb. X. 25.
STEPS IN BACKSLIDING.
1. Neglect of secret prayer. Job xv.
4 ; Isa. xliii. 10.
2. Disregard of the Bible. Jer. vi. 19;
Hos. iv. 6.
3. Forsaking the means of grace. Neh.
X. 39 ; Heb. x. 25.
4. Worldly-mindedness. 2 Tim. iv
10 ; I John ii. 15.
5. Levity in conversation. Eph. v. 4 ;
2 Pet. iii. II.
6. A quarrelsome spirit. Isa. xxix.
21 ; 1 Cor, iii. 3.
7. Dwelling on the faults of others.
Matt, vii, 3, 5.
8. Readiness to take offence. Pro. xiv
17 ; xviii. 19.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
207
9. A murmuring, repining spirit. i
Oor. X. 10 ; PhiL ii. 14.
10. A critical hearing of the word. 2
"Tim. iv. 3.
11. Covetousness. Luke xii. 15 ; Col.
aii. 5.
12. Light thoughts of sin. i Kings
.-xvi. 41 : Matt. xxii. 5.
13. Intemperance. Prov. xxii. 29-32.
14. Love of pre-eminence. Prov. xvi.
18 ; Luke xiv. 8-1 1.
15. Indulgence in secret sin. Num.
:xxxii. 23 ; Eccl. xii. 14.
16. Falling into outward sin. Prov.
rxiv. 4 ; Hos. iv. 17.
17. Into scoffing and infidelity. 2 Pet.
>iii. 3.
18. Persecuting the righteous. Acts
•vii. 52.
19. An awful death. Prov. xiv. 32.
20. Final perdition. Matt. xxv. 41.
Turn to the Scriptures attached to
•every step in the ladder — ponder them.
And *' now unto Him that is able to keep
you from falling, be glory and majesty,
'dominion and power, both now and for-
■€ver. Amen."
CONFESSION OF SIN.
Acknowledge, not hide. Psalm li. 3 ;
--xxxii. 5.
Me, a sinner. Luke xviii. 13.
Father, I have'.sinned. Luke xv. 18.
Dealt very corruptly. Neh. i. 6, 7 ; i
sKings vii i. 47.
Against thee. Jer. xiv. 20.
Because — forsaken God. Judges x. 10.
Unto us, confusion. Dan. ix. 8.
For Thy Name's sake. Ps. Ixxix. 9.
Cleanse me. Ps. li. 2.
Heal my soul. Ps. xli. 4.
Whiles I was confessing. Dan. ix. 29.
THE "COMES" OF THE NEW
TESTAMENT.
1. God's invitation. Luke xiv. 7.
2. The soul's struggle. Markx. 21.
3. Grace to the chief of sinners. Luke
xix. 5.
4. Rest. Matt. xi. 28.
5. Separation from the world. 2 Cor.
'vi. 17. •
6. Strength for service. John xxi. 12.
7. Second coming of Christ. Rev.
rxxii. 20.
The Truth.
THE "COMES" OF THE OLD
TESTAMENT.
1. Judgment. Gen. vii. I.
2. Salvation. Isa. i. 18.
3. The Holy Spirit. Ezek. xxxvii. 9.
4. Worship. Psalm xcv. 6.
5. Revival. Song of Sol. iv. 6.
6. Care of Israel's faithful remnant in
the last days. Isa. xxvi. 20.
7. Second appearing of Christ. Jer.
1-5-
CHANCE.
god's part.
He controls every event, i Sam. ii.
6-9 ; Dan. iv. 35 ; Matt. vi. 26 ; x. 29-
31 ; Eph. i. II.
He upsets all unrighteous plans. Job
v. 12.
man's part.
H-e should do his best. Prov. xxi. 31 ;
Eccl. ix. 10.
He should do what is right. Prov. xxi.
30-
He should trust God for success. Prov.
xvi. 33.
Events appear to men to happen by
chance. Eccl. ix. 11 ; Luke x. 31, 37.
But they are portions of God's provi
dence. Eccl. iii. 17.
And man cannot in any way control
them. Eccl. vii. 13 ; Lam. iii. 37.
RENEWED ACCEPTANCE AND
DEDICATION.
(IN DEPENDENCE ON DIVINE STRENGTH.)
I know and acknowledge myself to be
a sinner. Rom. iii. 23 ; Psa. cxix. 176;
Luke XV. 18, 21.
I believe that God the Father, in love,
sent His Son to save sinners. John iii.
16, 17 ; Acts iii. 26 ; I Tim. i. 15.
I embrace Jesus, the Christ of God, as
my Saviour. John i. 11-13 ; Matt. xi.
28 ; Acts xiii. 38, 39 : Isa. xiv. 22.
I welcome the Holy Spirit as my
Sanctifier. John xiv. 16, 17, 26 ; i Thes.
iv, 8 ; I Peter i. 2.
I give myself wholly to Christ for Time
and Eternity. Isa. xliv. 5 ; Rom. xii. i ;
I Cor. vi. 19, 20.
I take His Word for my Rule. Psalm
cxix. 105 ; 2 Timothy iii. 16, 17 ; I Peter
i. 14.
I take His people for my Companions.
Ruth i. 16 ; Acts ii. 47 ; Heb. x.'25.
I will make His Glory my end. Rom.
vi. II ; I Cor. x. 31 ; i Peter iv. 11.
2o8
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
REMEDIES FOR SPIRITUAL
MALADIES.
Bad Temper. Ps. xxxiv. i.
Evil Speaking. Ps. xxxv. 28.
Melancholy. Ps. Ixx. 4.
Scandal. ■ Ps. Ixxi. 8.
Self Righteousness. Ps. Ixxi. 15.
Fear. Ps. Ixxi, 24.
Songs. Ps. Hi. 9.
Boasting. Ps. xliv. 8.
Envy. Prov. xxiii. 17.
Evil Thoughts. Ps. cxix. 97.
DEW DROPS.
Drops of the night. Cant. v. 2.
God give thee of the dew of heaven.
— Genesis xxvii, 28. Comes dou^n the
gift of heaven, copious, free, refreshing,
gently, silently, fertilizing. Isaac's
blessing on Jacob.
Dew of heaven turned to manna.
In the morning the dew lay round about
the host. — Exodus xvi. 13. Then the
manna, angels' food. — Num. xi. 19 ;
Psalm Ixxviii. 25.
Softly God's mercies fall. My speech
shall distil as the dew, — Deut. xxxii. 2.
Joseph's land blessed for the precious
things of heaven, the dew. Deut.xxxiii,i3.
The heavens shall drop down dew.
Deut. xxxiii. 28, 29.
Death of Saul in Gilboa. Ye moun-
tains of Gilboa, let there be no dew. —
2 Sam. i. 21.
Elijah's prophecy. There shall not
be dew these years. — t Kings xvii. i.
Job's former prosperity. The dew
lay all night upon my branch. • Job
xxix. 19.
Who hath begotten the drops of dew?
Job xxxviii. 28.
Of Christ it is said : Thou hast the
dew of thy youth, freshness, brilliancy.
Psalm ex. 3.
Christian unity and love compared to
the dew of mount Hermon, mountains
of Zion. Psalm cxxxiii. 3.
God makes the clouds drop down dew.
Prov. iii, 20.
The King's favor is as dew upon the
grass. Prov, xix. 12.
God will comfort His people as with
a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.
Isaiah xviii. 4.
Life-giving, the dew of herbs. Isaiab
xxvi. 19.
I will be as the dew unto IsraeL
Hosea xiv. 5.
As a dew from the Lord. Micah v. 7.
Heaven over you is stayed from dew*
and earth from her fruit, Haggai i. 10..
Heavens shall give their dew. Zech.
viii, 12.
Dew comes in the night, darkness ;
night of affliction. Clouds drop the
dew. C. P. J.
THE TWENTY-THIRD PSALM.
ILLUSTRATED BY SCRIPTURE.
1. The Lord is my shepherd. Isaiah,
xl. II ; John x. 11-14.
2. I shall not want. Psalm Ixxxiv. 11;
xxxiii. 18-19 ; xxxiv. 22 ; xxxvii. 18-19.
3. He maketh me to lie down in green
pastures. — Pastures of tender grass..
He leadeth me beside the still waters. —
Waters of quietness. Gentle shepherd
still,
4. He restoreth my soul. Ruth iv.15;
Isaiah Iviii. 12.
5. He leadeth me in the paths of
righteousness. Isaiah xlviii. 17 ; John.
X. 13.
Sing. He leadeth me.
6. For his name sake, i Samuel xii.
22 ; Psalm cvi. 8 ; i John ii. 12 ; Psalm
Ixxii. 17-19.
7. Yea, though I walk through the-
valley of the shadow of death, I will
fear no evil, for thou art with me-
Isaiah xliii.' 1-2; Acts xxvii. 20-25;.
Daniel iii. 25-27.
8. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort '
me. Exodus xvii. 5-6 and 9 ; Micah
vii, 14.
9. Thou preparest a table before me-
in the presence of mine enemies. Psalm
Ixxviii. 25-28 . Luke xxii. 29-30 ; Rev..
vii. 17.
10. Thou anointest my head with oil-
Psalms xlv. 7 ; Ixxxix. 20 ; xcii. 10 ;
xxviii. 8.
11. My cup runneth over. Psalm
xxxi. 19 ; xxxiv. 6-8 ; xlv. 13-15 ; Ixxxix.
I ; xcvii. 10-12; ciii. 1-5.
1 2. Surely goodness and mercy shall
follow me all the days of my life.
Psalm c. 5 ; ciii. 17 ; i Chron. xvi. 34 ;
Psalm cvi. i ; cvii. i.
13. And I -ivill dwell in the house ofi
the Lord forever. Psalm Ixxxiv. 10 ;,
xxvii, 4 ; cxvi. 16-19. C. P. J
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
209
■ NOW !
There is a great deal more in the
little word now than at first sight may
appear.
It is of the very essence of the Gospel.
How often have we pressed upon anxious
enquirers that, now is the accepted
time, now is the day of salvation !
But the word now is of the very
essence of all spiritual blessings.
Of justification : being 7zow justified
by His blood. Rom. v. 9.
Of assurance : now, says the apostle,
are we the sons of God. — i John iii. 2.
Again, now are ye light in the Lord. —
Eph. V. 8.
Of deliverance from the law : but mow
we are delivered from the law. Rom.
vii. 6.
Of freedom from condemnation :
there is therefore now no condemnation
to them who are in Christ Jesus. Rom,
viii. I.
Of union to Christ : but now in
Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were
far off, are made nigh by the blood of
Christ. Eph. ii. 13.
Of holiness : but now being made free
from sin, ye have your fruit unto holiness.
Rom. vi. 22.
Of the life of faith : the life which I
now live in the flesh, I live by the faith
of the Son of God, who loved me, and
gave Himself for me. Gal. ii. 20.
Many other passages tell us plainly that
our position and blessing and power arc
established and promised now. Let us
then in faith cultivate the present use and
enjoyment of our Christ, in whom we jzow
possess all things. C. B.
NOW.
1. Come; for all things are now ready.
Luke xiv. 17.
2. The hour is coming, and now is,
when tne dead shall hear the voice of the
Son of God ; and they that hear shall
live. John v. 25; John iii. 3; John iii.
30; I Tim. V. 6; Isaiah Iv. 3.
3. But now the righteousness of God
•without the law is manifested, beings
14
witnessed by the lav^ and tne prophets ;
even the righteousness of God, which is
by faith of Jesus Christ, unto all and
upon all them that believe. Rom. iii.
21, 22 ; I Cor. i. 30,
4. Much more then, being now justi-
fied by His blood, we shall be saved
from wrath through Him. Rom. v. 9 ;
Acts iii 39.
5. There is, therefore, now no con-
demnation to them, which are in Christ
Jesus, Rom. viii. i ; and here the verse
properly ends, as the clause, who walk
not after the flesh but after the spirit, it
is well known, is a human interpolation,
appropriately belonging to the fourth
verse, but marring the grandeur and
simplicity of the first verse. If a man
turns his eye in upon himself with the
hope of finding some good to comfort
his soul, he will only lift the wail ol
distress. Rom. vii. 24.
6. Behold, now is the accepted time ;
behold, now is the day of salvation, — 2
Cor. vi. 2. Or as Alford says it means,
now is the very time of most favorable
acceptance.
7. But now, in Christ Jesus, ye who
sometimes were far off, are made nigh
by the blood of Christ. Eph. ii. 13 ;
Heb. ix. 24.
8. Beloved, now are we the sons of
God ; and it doth not yet appear what we
shall be : but we know that, when He
shall appear, we shall be like Him ; for
we shall see Him as He is. i John iii. 2^
Gal. iii. 26. J. H. Brookes.
NOW.
The now of Calvary. Heb. ix. 26.
The Jtozt; of resurrection, i Cor. xv. 20..
The now of deliverance. Ps. xxvii, 6.
The now of salvation. 2 Cor. vi. 2.
The now of no condemnation. Rom.,
viii. I.
The now of nearness. Eph. ii. 13.
The 7Z0ZU of sonship. I John iii. 2.
The 7Z0W of intercession. Heb. ix. 24..
The fzora of hope. Rom. xv. 13.
The 7zoza of peace. Rom. xv. 33.
jVozc unto Him that is able to keep you
from falling, and to present you faultless
before the presence of His glory with
exceeding joy.
2IO
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
JOB XIX. 8. 9. lo.
He hath fenced up my way. Shew
mc thy ways, O Lord. Ps. xxv. 4.
He hath set darkness in my paths.
The paths of the Lord are mercy and
truth. Ps. xxv. 10.
He hath stripped me of my glory.
That we should be to the praise of His
glory. Eph. i. 12.
And taken the crown from my head.
On His head were many crowns. Rev.
xix. 12.
He hath destroyed me. That the body
of sin might be destroyed, Rom. vi. 6.
I am gone. Not I. but Christ liveth
in me. Gal. ii. 20.
Mine hope hath He removed. Christ
in you, the hope of glory. Col. i. 27.
THE NEW LIFE AND THE NEW
WAY.
My birthday. — John iii. 7 ; Eph. ii. i.
M)' Father. — i John iii. i.
My food. — I Peter ii. 2.
My clothes. — Isa. Ixi. 10 ; i Pet. v. 5.
My life. — Col. iii. 3 ; Phil. i. 21.
My growth. — 2 Peter iii. 18 ; Eph.
iv. 15.
My school. — Deut. viii. 2.
My teacher. — John xiv. 26.
My lesson. — Titus iii. 14 ; Phil. iv. 11.
My friend. — Hebrews xiii. 8 ; Prov.
xviii. 24.
My character.— I Peter i. 15.
My pursuits. — Phil. iii. 13, 14.
My sorrows. — 2 Cor. vi. 10 ; Rom.
xii. 15.
My joys. — i Peter i. 8 ; Psa. xvi. 11.
My home. — ^John xiv. 2 ; Rev. xxi.io.
THE NEW THINGS OF TPIE
BIBLE ABOUT THE NEW MAN.
" New things do I declare.'" — Isa. xlii. 9.
1. A new creature. 2 Cor. v. 17.
If any man be in Christ, &c; Implying
— Regenera tion .
2. A new heart. Ezek. xxxvi. 26.
A new heart will I give you. Implying
— Love.
3. A new tongue. Mark xvi. 17.
They shall speak with, &c. Implying —
Power.
4. A new song. Psalm xl. 3. He
hath put a new song, &c. tmpiying —
Joy.
5. New food. 1 Peter ii. 2. As
aew-born babes, &c. Implying — The
Scriptures.
6. A new name. Rev. iii. 12. I
will write on him. &c. Implying
-Privilege.
7. A new covenant. Heb. viii. 8.
I will make a new covenant. Implying
— Relationship.
8. A new commandment. John xiii.
34. A new commandment, &c. Im-
plying— Law.
9. A new way. Isaiah xliii. 19. I
will do a new thing, &c. Implying —
Guidance.
10. New mercies. Lam. iii. 23.
They are new, &c. Implying — Gratitude.
11. New fruit. Ezek. xlvii. 12. It
shall bring forth. Implying — Holiness.
12. A new home. Rev. xxi. i. I
saw a new heaven, &c. Implying —
Heaven.
"Behold, I make all things news." —
Rev. xxi. 5.
Note. — The " New Song" occurs eight
times — oftener than any other new
thing — and shows that the Lord's people
ought to be a singing people.
CONVERSION.
A radical change. 2 Cor. v. 17.
A spiritual change. John iii. 6.
God's gift. Titus iii. 5.
Necessary. John iii. 3.
Commanded. Acts iii. 19.
Evidence. Matt. vii. 20.
Manner. Acts xvi. 31.
CONVERSION.
Conviersion is not Profession. Titus
i. 16 — Baptism. Acts viii. 13-r-Morality.
Luke xviii. 11, 12 — Outward Conformity
to Religion. 2 Tim. iii. 5 — the Sup-
pression of Vice. 2 Peter ii. 20, 21, 22
— or the excitement of Feeling. Acts
xxi v. 25 ; xxvi. 28.
Conversion is a change in the mind.
Ph'l.ii. 5 — in tl^ members. Rom. vi.
13- and in the life. Rom. xiv. 8 — and
a turning from sin. Matt. i. 21 — from
Satan. Col. i. 13 — from the world.
Gal. vi. 14 — and from self-righteousnec -..
Phil. iii. 8, 9 — to God. Psalm Ii. 13—
to Christ. Phil. i. 21 — and to Christ's
commandments. Matt. xi. 29, 30.
Without Conversion, Existence. Matt.
xxvi. 24 — Creation. Rom. viii. 22 — Re-
ligion. Prov. XV. 8 — Hope. Job xxvii.
8 — and the work of Christ, as far as
Thou art concerned, are in vain. John
iii. 3 ; Matt, xviii. 3.
Art Thou Converted ? — 2 Cor. xiii: 5;
Gal. vi. 4; I Peter iii. 15.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
211
WHAT IS RELIGION?
1. To be religious is, to know the
only true God and Jesus Christ whom
He hath sent. John xvii. 3 ; 2 Cor. iv.
6; Matt. iv. 6; xiii. 16, 17.
2. To return to God, and repose in
Him as the rest of our souls. Psalm
cxvi. 7 ; cxix. Ill ; xci. 9.
3. To come to God as a Father, in
and by Jesus Christ as Mediator. Gal.
ii. 20 ; Phil. iii. 3 ; Rom. xv, 13.
4. To enjoy God in all our creature-
comforts. Psalm iv. 6, 7 ; xxxiv. 8, 9 ;
I Tim. vi. 17.
5. To cast all our cares upon God,
and to commit all our ways and works
to Him, with an assurance that He will
care for us. 1 Peter v. 7 ; Psalm xxxvii.
4, 5; Phil, iv. 11-13.
6. To rejoice in the Lord always.
Phil. iii. i; iv. 4 ; 1 Thess. v. 16;
Psalm cxxxviii. 5 ; Hab. iii. 17, 18.
7. To make a business of praising
God. Psalm Ixxxiv. 4 ; i Peter ii. 9 ;
Heb. xiii. 15.
8. To have all our inordinate appe-
tites corrected and regulated. Rom.
viii. 13 ; 2 Tim. ii. 26 ; Prov. xxiii. 29-32.
9. To have all our unruly passions
likewise governed and subdued. Psalm
xxxvii. 17 ; Matt. xi. 29.
10. To dwell in love to all our brethren,
and to do all the good we can in this
world. Rom. xiii. 10; Acts xx. 25;
Rom. xii. 15 ; Job xxix. 13 ; Psalm
cxxxiii. I.
11. To live a life of communion with
God. I John i. 3 ; Psa. xxv, 15.
12. To keep up a constant believing
prospect of the glory to be revealed.
Col. iii. 11; Rom. xv. 13; Phil. iii.
20, 21. Matthew Henry,
REGENERATION.
I. Regeneration— its Definition. 2
Cor. V. 17 ; Rom. vi. 4; Eph, ii. 1, 5 ;
Ezek. xxxvi. 26 ; Eph. iv. 24. 2. Re-
generation— its Necessity. John iii. 6 ;
Rom. viii. 7, 8 ; Matt, xviii. 3 ; John iii.
3. 3. Regeneration — its Author. John
i. 13 ; I Peter i. 3 ; i John ii. 29 - John
iii. 6 ; Titus iii, 5. 4. Regeneration —
its Means. James i. 18; i Pet. i. ^;
I Cor. iv. 15 ; Psa. cxix. 59 ; John vi.
45. 5. Regeneration — its Evidences, i
John v. I ; ii. 29 ; iv. 7 ; 2 Cor. v. 17.
6, Regeneration — its Fruits. Eph. iv.
24 ; Rom, viii. 29 ; Col, iii. 10 ; i John
V. 4 ; Rom. vii. 22. 7. Regeneration —
its Blessedness. Romans iv. 6-8 ; v,
1-3; viii. 16, 17 ; 2 Cor. ix. 8 ; Jude 24.
Rev, J. H. Vincent, D.D.
" NEW,"
He that sat upon the throne saith,
"Behold, I make all things new," Rev.
xxi, 5.
New Testament, Matt. xxvi. 28 ;
Mark xiv. 24 ; Luke xxii. 20 ; i Cor. xi.
25 ; Heb. ix. 15,
New covenant, Heb. viii. 8, 13 ; xii. 24.
New and living way, Heb x. 20.
New man, Eph. ii. 15; iv. 24 ; Col.
iii. 10.
New creature or divine nature, 2 Cor.
V. 17 ; Gal. vi. 15 ; 2 Pet. i. 4.
New Commandment, John xiii. 34.
New Spirit within you, i John ii. 8 ,*
Ezek, xi. 19 ; xxxvi. 26.
New Heavens and a new earth, Isa.
Ixv. 17 ; Ixvi. 22 ; 2 Peter iii. 13 ; Rev.
xxi. I.
New Jerusalem, Rev. iii. 12 ; xxi. 2.
New name. Rev. ii. 17; iii. 12; Isa,
Ixii. 2.
New Song, Psa. xl. 3 ; xc. i ; Psalm
xcviii. I ; cxlix. i.
New Tongues, Mark xvi. 17 ; Acts ii.
4 ; X, 46 ; xix. 6 ; i Cor. xii. 10, 28 ;
I Cor. xiv.
God's mercies new every morning,
Lamentations iii. 23.
THE NEW BIRTH.
1. Its necessity. Gen. vi. 5 ; Job xiv.
4 ; Psalm Ii. 5 ; Prov. xxviii. 26 ; Eccl.
ix. 3 J Jer. xvii. 9; Mark vii. 21-23;
Rom. viii. 7, 8 ; i Cor. ii. 14; Eph.ii.i.
2. Its sources. John i. 13 ; Titus iii.
5 ; James i. 18 ; i John ii. 29.
3. How described. New creation : 2
Cor. V. 17; Gal. vi. 15; Eph. ii. 10.
Spiritual resurrection : Rom. vi. 4-6
212
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Eph. ii. 1-5; Col. ii. 12; iii. i. New
heart : i Sam. x. 9 ; Ezek. xxxvi. 26.
Circumcision of the heart : Deut. xxx.
6; Rom. ii. 29 ; Col. ii. 11. New man :
I Sam. X. 6 ; Eph. ii. 15 ; iv. 24. Inward
man: Rom. vii. 22; 2 Cor. iv. 16.
Washing of regeneration : Titus iii. 5.
Born again : James i. 18 ; i Peter i. 23.
4. Its effect. Begets likeness to God:
Eph. iv. 24; Col. iii. 10. To Christ:
Rom. viii. 29.
5. Evidences of faith in Christ, i
John iii. 9 ; v. i ; i. 18. Love of God's
law : Rom. vii. 22. Brotherly love : John
xiii. 35 ; I John iii. 14-24; iv. 7; v. i, 2.
Victory over the world : i John v. 4.
6. Instrumentalities of the word of
God : Jas. i. 18 ; i Peter i. 23, Ministry
of the Gospel : i Cor. iv. 15.
NEW LIFE.
1. New creature or new birth. 2 Cor.
V. 17 ; John iii. 3, 7 ; i Peter i. 23 ; James
i. iS, 21 ; John i. 12, 13 ; 2 Peter i. 4 ;
Gal. iii. 26 ; Eph. ii. 10; Eph. iv. 22,24.
As new creatures, we live under a
2. New covenant. Heb. viii. 8-13 ;
Heb. xii. 22, 24; Matt. xxvi. 28.
As new creatures under a new cove-
nant, we have a
3. New commandment. John xiii. 34;
John XV. 12, 17 ; i John iii. 14-24 ; Rom.
xiii. 8-10 ; Matt, xxii. 36, 40 ; i Cor .xiii.
And walk in a
4. New way. Heb. x. 19, 20 ; John
X. 9 ; John xiv. 6 ; Isaiah xxxv. 8-10.
To the
5. New Jerusalem. Rev. xxi. i, 2 ;
Rev. iii. 12 ; John xiv. 2 ; John xvii. 24;
Phil.iii. 19,26 ; Eph.ii.6,9; I John iii.2,3.
We are known by a
6. New name. Rev. iii. 12; Rev. ii.
17; Isaiah Ixii. 2 ; Isaiah xliii. 1-7; Rev.
xxii. 4 ; Luke x. 20 ; i John v. 4, 5 ; i
Cor. XV. 57, 58.
Then in that glorious home with our
new name, we shall join with the untold
host of the redeemed in singing the
7. New song. Rev. v. 9, 12 ; Rev. xiv.
I T, ; Rev. XV. 3 ; Rev. xix. 1-9. We
learn the new song in this world.—
Psalm xl. 1-4 ; Psalm cxviii. 14.
O sing unto the Lord a new song
for He hath done marvellous things
Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord
a new song. Praise ye the Lord.
How shall we sing the Lord's song in
a strange land. S. R. B.
A SWARM OF SCRIPTURE BEES
Be converted. Acts iii. 19.
Be renewed. Eph. iv. 23.
Be obedient. Eph. iv. 23.
Be comforted. Col. ii. 2.
Be content, Heb. xiii. 5..
Be sober, i Peter i. 14.
Be thankful. Col. iii. 15*
Be discreet. Titus ii, 5.
Be gentle. 2 Tim. ii. 24.
Be loved, i John iii. 2.
Be courteous, i Peter
Be pitiful. I Peter iii. i
Be wise, i Cor. iii. 8.
Be diligent. 2 Peter iii.
Be laithful. Rev. ii. 10.
Be zealous. Gal. iv. 18
Be temperate. Titus 1.
Be vigilant, i Peter v. 8.
Be ready, i Peter iii. 15*
Be glad, i Peter iv. 13.
Be good. 2 Cor. v. 10.
Be holy, i Peter i. 16.
Be perfect. 2 Cor. xiii, ir.
Be Christ's. Gal. iii. ?9.
iii. 8.
14..
8.
READY.
Destruction is ready. — ^Job xviii. it.
The day of darkness is ready .--Job xv.a3.
God is ready to pardon. — Neh. ix. 17.
The feast is ready. — Luke xiv. 17.
Salvation is ready to be revealed. — i
Peter i. 5. Christ is ready to judge the
quick and the dead. — i Peter iv. 5.
Therefore be ye also ready. — Matt,
xxiv. 44.
The believer should be ready to give
an answer of the hope that is in him. —
I Peter iii. 15. To preach the Gospel. —
Rom. i. 15. To distribute. — i Tim vi.
18. To every good work. — Titus iii. i.
To be bound and to die. — Acts xxi. 13.
To be offered and to depart. — 2 Tim.iv.6
To meet the Lord.— Luke xii. 40.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
213
STRONG IN THE LORD.
In order to be strong in the Lord
1. We must have simple faith.
Little faith fails. Matt. xiv. 31.
Great faith prevails, Mark xi. 22,23;
John xiv. 12 ; Luke xviii. 42.
If thou canst believe, all things are
possible to him that believeth. Mark
tx. 23.
According to your faith be it unto you.
Our God whom we serve is able to
deliver us. Dan. iii. 17, 18; vi. 23.
2. We must realize our oneness with
■Christ.
All my springs are in Thee. — Psalm
Ixxxvii. 7. We must abide in the Vine.
— John XV. 4, 5 ; Col. ii. 3, 9. We hold
the Head that we may grow up into
Him. — Col, ii. 19 ; Eph. iv. 15, 16.
3. We must seek strength by prayer.
They that wait upon the Lord will
arenew their strength. — Isaiah xl. 31 ;
Psalm xxvii, 14. Christ Himself sought
strength by prayer. — Heb. v. 7. St.
Luke tells us very much about the
prayerfulness of our blessed Saviour. —
Luke iii. 21 ; v. 16 ; vi. 12 ; ix. 18, 29 ;
xi. I ; xxii. 32, 39-46. 'So He bade us
ask. — Matt. vii. 7 ; James i. 5. Our God
is faithful. — i Cor. x. 12, 13 ; 2 Thess.
iii. 3.
Only trust Him. Let our resolve be
' — I will go in the strength of the Lord
God. I will make mention of Thy
^righteousness ; even of Thine only.
FROM SUFFERING TO GLORY.
Jesus. Heb. xxi. 2 ; i Pet. i. 21-24.
Paul. Rom. viii. 18 ; 2 Cor. iv. 17-18.
Peter, i Peter iv. 12-14.
All. Rev. vii. 9- 17.
SUCH AN OFFER.
COME UNTO ME : I W^ILL GIVE YOU
Such an offer ! Full and
free !
Can it be really meant for
me?
That all my sins on Christ
be laid, Isa.
That all my debt by Him
be paid ? Gal.
Yes : Jesus says it, Who
has died : — Rom
''Believe,' and thou art Gal.
justified. John
REST.
liii. 6.
iii. 13.
. iv. 5.
ii. 16.
iii. 16.
Jesus stood and cried, saying, If ony
man thirst, let him come unto Me and
drink. John vii. 37.
Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye
to the waters ; and he that hath no money
come ye, buy and eat : yea, come, buy
wine and milk without money, and with-
out price. Isa. Iv. i.
Such an offer ! Pardon now Isa. i. 18.
For hidden sin, and broken
vow ! Heb. viii. 12.
And years of cold neglect
and scorn ; —
Can mercy's ray upon me
dawn ?
Yes : Jesus died instead of
thee ; 2 Cor. v. 21.
His death for thiney must be i Pet. ii. 24.
thy plea. I Pet. iii. 18.
Through this man is preached unto you
the forgiveness of sins j and by Hini all
that believe are justified, etc. Acts xiii.
38-
When he was yet a great way off, uis
Father saw him, and had compassion,
and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed
him. Luke xv. 20.
Such an offer ! Need I Rom. iii. 20-24.
bring. Tit. iii. 5.
To Jesus Christ no offering ?
A willing and believing
heart.
This — this is all the sinner's
part :
He says it. Who death's
sting has braved : Hos. xiii. 14.
Look unto Me, and be
saved. Isa. xiv. 22.
With the heart man believeth unto
righteousness, and with the mouth con-
fession is made unto salvation. Rom. x.
10.
Verily, verily I say unto you, He that
believeth on Me hath everlasting life.
John vi. 47.
Such an offer ! But I find
All unrenewed my heart
and mind, Rom. iii. 10;
Is it not written in God's viii. 7.
Word,
We must be ' holy to the
Lord ' ? Heb. x. 16.
Yes : and that holiness be- i Pet. i. 16.
gins
When Jesus saves us from
our sins.
214
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Thou shalt call His name Jesus : for
He shall save His people from their sins.
Matt. i. 21.
Sin shall not have dominion over you :
for ye are not under the law, but under
grace. Rom. vi. 14.
Such an offer ! Peace and
joy, I Pet. i. 8, 9.
Untainted by the world's
alloy ;
The sweet assurance of a
Friend
Who loving, loves unto the
end ; John xiii. i .
The knowledge now of sins
forgiven, I John i. 7.
And of a place prepared in
Heaven. John xiv. 1-3.
Peace I leave with you, My peace I
give unto you: not as the world giveth,
give I unto you. John xiv. 27.
Your heart shall rejoice, and your joy
no man taketh from you. John xvi. 22.
Oh, what goodness ! Lord,
I take
This offer Thou dost freely
make ! Mark ix. 24
My one desire shall hence- Acts viii. 37
forth be
To live for Him who died i Cor. vi. 20
for me. , Phil. iii. 8
Spread glad news through every nation
Instant, free, and full salvation !
The love of Christ constraineth us ; be-
cause we thus judge that they which
live should not henceforth live unto them-
selves, but unto Him which died for
them. 2 Cor. v. 14, 15.
The Spirit and the Bride say. Come.
And let him that heareth say. Come.
And let him that is athirst Come, And
whosoever will, let him take the Water
of Life freely. Rev. xxii. 17.
I'm a poor sinner, and nothing at all,
But Jesus Christ is my all in all.
WHERE ARE YOUR SINS?
Isa. liii. 6 ; i Pet. ii. 24 ; Isa. xxxviii.
17 ; Isa. xliii. 25 ; Isa. xliv. 22 ; Micah
vii. 19 ; Ps. ciii. 12 ; John i. 29 ; Rom.
iv. 7, 8 ; Heb. ix. 26 ; Heb. x. 17.
TEMPTATION.
Lead us not into. Matt. vi. 13.
Way of escape, i Cor. x. 13.
Deliver out of. 2 Peter ii. 9.
Time of temptation. Luke viii. 13.
Will be rich, fall into, i Tim. vi. 9.
Divers temptations. Jas. i. 2 ; I Petec'
i. 6.
Lest thou also be tempted. Gal. vi. i..
Let no man say. Jas. i. 13, 14.
Trial of your faith, precious, i Peter
i. 7.
Blessed is he that endureth. Jas. i. 12..
I will keep thee from. Rev. iii. lo.
FAITH.
I. What is faith? John iciv. i ; Rom.
X. 6-10 ; 2 Cor. v. 7 ; Heb. xi. I. 2. The
Truth to be believed. Psa. xxvii. 13 j:
Matt. ix. 28-30 ; Mark xi. 24 ; Heb, xi. 3.
3. The aim of faith. Heb. ii. 6 ; Johns
iii, 16 ; 2 Cor. i. 24 ; i Tim. i. 5. 4.
The results of faith. Acts x. 43 ; Rom.
X. 9-1 1 ; Gal. ii. 20 ; Eph. iii. 12. 5.
The testing of faith. Gen. xxii. 15-18 ;:
John xi. 25-27 ; James 1. 3 ; "i Peter i. 7,
6. The power of faith. Matt. ix. 28-30 ;:
Mark ix. 23 ; Eph. vi. 16 ; Jas. v. 15.
7. From faith to fruition. Rom. iv. 3 ;.
Heb. iv. 3 ; James ii. 17 ; i John v. 4.
J. H. Vincent, D. D.
TRUMPETS.
I. God's Call to Man.
(i) The trumpet of the jubilee (on day
of atonement). — Lev. xxv. 9. To»
proclaim :
{a) Liberty, ver. 10. — Isa. Ixi. i ; Rom.
vi. 7 ; Gal. v. i.
{Possession. — Eph. i..
II,
Family. — Eph. ii. 19.
{c) Rest, ver. 11. — Matt. xi. 28, 29.
{2) The silver trumpets, — Num. x, 1-8.
(a) The gathering call, "For the
calling of the assembly," ver, 2,
(present) — Matt, xxiii, 37; xviii, 20 ;
(future) I Thess. iv. 16, 17 ; Psa.
1. 5 ; 2 Thess. ii. i.
(b) The journeying call, ver. 2. Fol-
low me. — Mark x. 21 ; i Peter ii.
21 ; Heb. xiii. 14,
(3) The trumpets of rams^ horns. — ^Josh.
vi. 5.
God's call to a shout of victory. — s.
Chrcn. xiii. 14, 15 ; i Cor. xv. 57 ;
Psalm v. II.
NOTES FOR. BIBLE READINGS.
(4) Warning to His rebellious children.
— 2 Chron. xiii. 12 ; Isa, xxx, i.
II. — Man's Call to God (as priests),
(i) In time of war and oppression of
the enemy. — Num. x. 9 ; Ps, 1. 15 ;
Ps. xlii. 9.
Ye shall be remembered. — Isa.
xliii. 26; Isa. xliv. 21.
Ye shall be saved, — Ps. cxxxvi.
23. 24.
(2) In the day of gladness. — Num. x.
10 ; 2 Chron. v. 13 ; Ps. xcviii. 6.
(3) In your solemn days. — Isa. xxx. 29.
"For a memorial" over burnt-
oflferings and sacrifices of peace.
III. — Man's Call to Man.
(i) For warning. — Ezek. xxxiii. 3 ;
Col, i. 28.
(2) For battle. — Neh. iv. 20 ; i Cor.
xiv. 8.
Support and comfort one another.
Rom. XV. I.
To serve one another. Gal. v. 13.
God commandeth Noah. Gen. vii. i.
God remembered Noah. Gen. viii. i.
God blessed Noah. Gen. ix. i.
CHRISTIAN UNITIES.
1. Christ ana the Father are " one."
John X. 30.
2. Christ and His disciples are "one."
John XV. 5.
3. The Father and the Son and dis-
ciples are "one." John xvii. 23.
4. Disciples are " one" with each
other. Rom. xii. 5. T. W. H.
TRUST.
COMMAND,
Trust in the Lord. Psa. xxxvii. 3 ;
Prov. lii. 5,
ANiSWER.
In Him will I trust. Psa. xci. 2 ;
Psa. cxliii. 8.
PROMISE.
They that trust shall be as Mount
Zion. Psa. cxxv. i.
RESULT.
My heart trusteth, and I am helped.
Psa. XX viii. 7.
God s command. 2 Cor.vi. 17 ; Rom.
xii. 2 , I John ii. 15, 16.
Christ's declaration. Matt, vi, 24 ;
Matt. vii. 21 ; Matt, x, 34-40 ; John xv.
18-20.
The choice. Heb. xi. 24, 25, 26.
The promise to the faithful. Mark x.
29, 30; 2 Cor. vi. 18; Rev. ii. 10.
Pray without ceasing, and to watch
and be sober, i Thess. v. 17 ; Rom.
sii. 12 ; Mark xiii, 33 ; i Peter iv. 7 ;
Eph. vi. 18 ; Col. iv. 2 : Mark xiv. 38 ;
1 Peter •v. 8; Thess. v. 6; Matt,
rxvi. 41.
To bear one another's burdens Gal.
vi. 2 ; I Thess. v. 11, 14.
DOUBT.
I. We should Doubt Self. Prov.
xxviii. 26; Matt. xxvi. 33, 34 ; Rom. xi.
I 20; I Cor. X. 12; Phil. ii. 21. 2. We
should Doubt Man. Jer. xvii. 5 ; Isa.
ii. 22 ; Psa. cxlvi. 3, 4 ; cxviii. 8, 9. 3.
We should Doubt the World, Luke
xii. 19, 20 ; I Tim. vi. g, 10 ; Job x^vii.
8; James iv. 13-15; Luke xv. 14, 4,
We should not Doubt God. Psa. xxxiv.
8 ; Isa, xxvi, 3,451 Tim. vi. 17 ; Heb.
xi. 6. 5. We should not Doubt Christ.
John xiv. I ; vi. 21 ; 2 Tim.i. 12 ; Matt,
xiv. 31. 6. Warning against Doubt, i
John V. 10; Rev. xxi. 8; Mark xii. 29;
Heb. iii. 12. 7. Rewards of Trust.
Psa. ii. 12 ; Isa. xxx. 18 ; Jer. xvii. 7, 8 ;
Matt. xxi. 21 ; Prov. xvi. 20,
Rev. J. H. Vincent, D.D.
•* TRUST."
Whom not to trust. — 2 Cor. i. 9 ;
Prov. xxviii. 26 ; Job. viii. 13-15 ; i Tim.
vi. 17 ; Psa. xlix. 6, 8; Gal. ii. 16; Eph.
ii. 9, etc. ; Isa. xxxi. i ; Psa. cxlvi. 3.
Whom to trust. — Isa. xxvi. 4 ; Matt,
xii. 18-21 ; Psa. xcix. 2-4 ; Psa. xx. 7 ;
Psa. ix. 10 ; i John v. 9-13 ; Acts viii.
38. 39. .
When to trust. — Psa. Ixii. 8 ; Psa. Ivi.
3, 4 ; Mark v. 36 ; Isa. 1. 10 j Heb. iii,
17-19 ; Job xiii. 15 ; Matt. viii. 23-26.
How to trust, — Prov. iii. 5 ; Rom. x,
9, 10 ; Heb. xi. 6 j Psa. xxxiv. 8 j Isa.
xii, 2 ; Psa. xviii. 2 ; Rom. xii. 1,2; Jas,
i. 27 ; Rom. vi. 1-6 ; Amos iii. 3 ; Gal.
ii. 20; Phil. iii. 3-8 ; Phil. i. 20, 21 ; iv.
6. 7.
Result of trusting man, — ^Jer. xvii. 5,
6; Job viii. 13-16; Job xxvii. 8 ; Isa.
xxx. I, 2 ; Matt. vii. 26, 27; Exod. xii.
.29, 30 ; xiv. 23-31 ; I Kings xviii. 17-29 j
Luke xvi. 23, 24 ; Rev. xxi, 8.
Result of trusting Cod. — Jer. xvii. 7.
2l6
;.S VO.^ UIBLE READINGS.
8; Prov. xvi. 20 ; Luke xviii. 13, 14;
Psa. Cxxv. I ; xxxvii. 3-6 ; xxxiv. 8-22 ;
Prov. xxix. 25 ; Rom. viii. 1-35 ; Isa.
ivii. 12, 13; Psa. xiv. 3-8 ; Psa. xxviii.
7 ; Psa. V. II, 12 ; Exod. xii. 21-23 ; xiv.
13-18 ; XV. ; I Kings xviii. 30-39-; John
V. 24 ; Eph. i. 12-14 ; Rom. v. 1-3 ; Dan.
vi. 16-24 ; Dan. iii. 23-28; Matt. vii. 24,
25 ; Rev. vii.-i3-i7.
" Ifave faith in God." S. R. B.
WHAT WE MAY LEARN FROM
THE "TAKES" OF THE BIBLE?
Take, Rev. xxii, 17.
Receive, Isa. i. 12, ,
Accept, Lev. xxvi. 41.
The fatal (mis)-take, Gen. iii. 6 ; an-
other in Luke xv. 13 ; and last, Rev.
xxii. 17, its great remedy.
Take cup of salvation, Psa. cxvi. 13.
Take hold of my strength, Is. xxvii. 5.
Take hold of my covenant, Isa. Ivi.
4, 6 ; Ixiv. 7.
Take with you words, Hosea iv. 2.
He said : —
Take eat my body. Matt. xxvi. 26.
Take this cup, Luke xxii. 17; xviii. 17
Take my yoke. Matt. xi. 29.
Take up cross, Mark x. 21.
Take up cross daily too, Luke ix, 23.
Receive one another as He received us
Rom. XV. 7 ; Luke, xv, 2 ; Matt, xviii. 5.
Take unto you the whole armour, etc.
Eph. vi. 13.
Armour of God, Eph. vi. 16.
Taking shield of faith. Eph. vi. 16.
Take helmet of salvation, Eph. vi. 17.
Take water of life, Rev. xxii. 17.
THE " ONE THINGS " OF THE
BIBLE,
1. The world's — Confusion, Acts xix.
22.
2. Befalleth all — Death, Eccl. iii. 19.
3. Needful — Conversion, Luke x. 42.
4. Lacking — Decision, Mark x, 21.
5. Known — Assurance, John ix. 25.
6. To do — Progress, Phil. iii. 13.
.7. Desired — Communion, Ps. xxvii. 4.
8, Never fails — Lord's promise, Josh,
xxiii 14.
9. Forgotten — Lord's Coming, 2 Pet.
iii. 8.
2. Teach me thy way, Ps. xxvii, 11 ;
John xiv. 6 ; Prov. xvi. 25 ; Ps. xxxii. 8.
3. Teach me thy paths. Ps. xxv. 4 ;
Prov. iii. 13-17; iv. 18 ; Eph. ii. 17-24;
Titus ii. 11-13.
4. Teach me thy statutes, Ps. cxix.
12 ; xix. 7, II ; cxix. 26, 27, 130 ; John
viii. 32 ; vii. 17 ; Jas. i. 21 ; Acts xvii.
II ; I John v. 13.
5. Teach me to pray, Luke xi. i ;
Mark i. 35 ; Matt. vi. 5-15 ;. Luke vi. 12 j
Acts xvi. 25 ; Gen. xxxii. 24, 26.
6. Teach me thy judgments, Ps. cxix.
108 ; Prov. iii. 11, 12 ; Ps. xix. 9 ; Heb.
xii. 6, 8 ; Rev. iii. 19 ; Hab. iii. 17, 19 ;
Psa. xciv. 12.
7. Teach me to number my days, Ps.
xc. 12 ; Eccl. xii. ; Job xix. 25-27 ;
Deut. xxxii. 29 ; Matt. xxv. i-io ; i Cor.
XV. 55-58 ; John ix. 4 ; 2 Tim. iv. 7, 8.
S. R. B.
TEACH ME.
I. Teach me the way of salvation,
Ps. xxv. 5 ; Matt. xi. 28, 30 ; John '^'"
e6 ; John v 24 : Acts xvi. ^i.
XIV.
ONE OR OTHER : WHICH ?
Alienated from the life of God. Eph.
vi. 18 ; or. Reconciled to God, Rom. v. 10.
Condemned already, John iii. 18 ; or,
No condemnation, Rom. viii. i.
Far off; or. Nigh by the blood of
Christ, Eph. ii. 13.
Dead in sins, Eph. ii. i ; or, Quicken-
ed with Christ, Eph. ii. 5.
Sins red like ciimson ; or, White as
snow, Isa.i. 18.
Without Christ, Eph. ii. 12 ; or, In
Christ, Eph. ii. 13.
In the flesh ; or, In the Spirit, Rom.
viii. 9.
Without hope, Eph. ii. 12 ; or, The
hope of glory. Col. i. 27.
THANKSGIVING.
Thanksgiving is the employment of
those who are in the immediate presence
of God. Rev. vii. 9-12. And therefore
in giving thanks we approach their
condition, as is indicated in Psalm cxl.
13. Thanklessness is the characteristic
of sinful man, man gone away from God.
Rom. i. 21. If our great English poet
has expressed the truth with jregard tj
thanklessness, and we think he has, in
these words put into the mouth of Kinj;
NOTES hOR BIB Hi KKADINGS.
217
X^ar: "How sharper than a serpent's
tooth it is."
To have a thankless child — how bitter
a thing sin must be to God since it
bears this fruit in man. Thanklessness
is the fruit of a sinful and depraved
aiature ; thankfulness is the fruit of a
regenerated heart. It flows naturally
from it as light from the sun. And yet.
it is not left to our free action, it is
•enjoined upon us.
1. As a Duty. Ps. 1. 14 ; I Thess. v.
i3 ; Ephes. V. 20.
How solemnly it is urged, " This is
the will of God in Christ Jesus con-
cerning you." When ? Always. In times
of adversity as well as in times of pros-
perity. For what? Everything. All
things. Examples. Paul in all his
■epistles. Job in his desolation. Job i.
.20, 21. But the word does not rest in
generalities, it descends to particulars,
as; For Christ, i Cor. ix. 15. For
saving grace. Col. i. 12. For peace
of God in the heart. Col. iii, 15. In
-all speeeh and action. Col. iii. 17. For
.food. I Tim. iv. 4. Examples. Jesus.
John vi. II. Paul. Acts xxvii. 35. In
-worship. Ps. c. 4; Ps. cxxii. 4; Ps.
•xcv. 2. Thanksgiving is the essence of
worship. In the xcii. Ps., which is a
song for the Sabbath, thanksgiving is
the keynote. David (i Chron. xvi. 41)
.and Hezekiah (2 Chron. xxxi. 2) Ap-
pointed priests and Levites whose
-special duty was to give thanks — to
offer this spiritual sacrifice ; now we
^are the priests who are to offer the
-•sacrifice of praise to God continually,
that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks
to his name. For victory over sin and
•death and the grave, i Cor. xv. 57.
2. What are the motives to Thanks-
^vifti^'? These all spring from the
-character of God and his action toward
■us, as His goodness and mercy. Psalm
•cvi, I . Psalm xxxvi, celebrates his mercy
in every department of his great kingdom
.and providence. His holiness. Ps.
2ixx. 4.- IT '^ -^^ ver. Ps. Ixxv. i. His
help. Ps. xlii, 5. His word. Psalm
cxix. 62. Because it magnifies him.
Ps. Ixix. 30. It dwells upon his grace,
his love, his excellencies.
3, What are the Results of Thanks-
giving ? We may mention all in one,
the glory of God fills the heart as it
filled the Temple. 2 Chron. v. 13, 14.
As Christians we ought earnestly to
cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving, for it
is one of the most beautiful, and bene-
ficial we can have, " Evermore thanks,
the exchequer of the poor."
James A. R. Dicksom.
MEEKNESS.
Blessed are the meek. Ps. xxxvii. 11.
Inherit the earth, Matt. v. 5.
Contentment, peace of mind, kindness,
tenderness. ,
Promises for the meek : —
Eat and be satisfied, Ps. xxii. 26.
Preach good tidings to the meek, Isa,
Ixi. I. .
Save all the meek, Psa. Ixxvi. 9.
Guide in judgment, teach His way.
Psa. XXV. 9.
Lifteth up the meek, Psa. cxlvii. 6,
Beautify the meek, Psa. cxlix. 4.
Increase their joy, Isa. xxii. 19.
Fruit of the Spirit, meekness. Gal. v.23.
We are all to seek meekness : —
Seek the Lord ye meek, Zeph. ii. 3.
Receive with meekness, Jas. i. 21.
Follow after meekness, i Tim. vi. 11.
Walk with meekness, Eph. iv. 2.
Put on meekness, Col. iii. 12.
Show meekness to all men, Titus iii. 2.
Show meekness, James iii. 13.
Instruct in meekness, 2 Tim. ii. 25.
Answer with meekness, i Pet. iii. 15.
And they sing the song of Moses, the
servant of God, an4 the song of the
Lamb, Rev. xv. 3.
The meekness and gentleness of
Christ, 2 Cor. x. 11.
Servant of God : The meekest of all
the men on the face of the earth.
Son of God : Learn of me, I am meek.
GENTLENESS.
Fruit of Spirit, Gal. v. 22.
Christ's example, 2 Cor. x. I ; Psalm
xviii. 35 ; Matt. viii. 3 ; xix. 13-15.
We are to be gentle, i Thess. ii. 7 ; -^
Tim. ii. 24-25; Jas. :, . i Pet. ii. 18.
ai8
NOTES FOR ^IBLE READINGS.
A STUDY.
CONTENTS OF CHAPTER I. MARK'S
GOSPEL.
(The numbers give the verses.)
Three principal persons mentioned —
John the Baptist : (4) Preached r*>
pentance — (4) Baptized Jesus — (7)
Pointed to Christ.
Jesus Christ : (9) Baptized by John —
,13) Tempted of Satan — (35) Prayed to
God.
Satan: (13) Tempted Jesus — (23, 32)
Got possession of men — (25, 34, 39)
Cast out by Jesus.
Three Titles given to Jesus —
By Mark: (i) Jesus Christ. By God:
(17) My beloved Son. By Satan: (24)
Holy One of God.
Three Miracles wrought by Jesus —
(23) On an unclean spirit — (30)
Simon's wife's mother — (40) I^per.
Three Contrasts —
(8) Baptism of John— baptism of
Jesus. (13) Satan tempts — angels
minister. (23; 24) Unclean spirit of
devil — Holy One of God.
Four Disciples —
Simon and Andrew, James and John :
(16, 17) Called— (18. 20) Forsake all—
(18,20) Follow Jesus.
A remarkable result of disobedience —
Because the healed leper published his
cure (when Jesus told him to " say
nothing" — verse 44), Jesus "could no
more openly enter into the city " (verse
45).
THE CHURCH AND ITS
OFFICERS.
(i Cor, xii. 27-31.)
Verse 27. Ye, i Cor. i. 1,2; Body, 1
Cor. xii. 12 ; Col. ii. 19 ; Members, Rom.
3di. 4, 5 ; Eph. v. 28-32 ; z Cor. vi. 17 ;
John xvii. 20-23.
Verse 28. Church — its aim, I Tim.
iii. 15; Eph. iii. lo; li. 20-22; God
bath set, Jer. iii. 15 ; Eph. iv. 4-6; iv.
II ; I Cor. xii. 7-11 ; Gifts differ, i Cor.
Kn. 4-6 ; Rom. xii. 6-8.
X. 39-42 ; I Cor, xiv. 12 ; More excellent
way, I Cor. xiii. i ; Col. iii. 14 ; i Peter
iv. 8 ; I Cor. xiii. 13 ; Rom. xii. g ; r
Cor. xiii. 4-8.
Rev. J. H. Vincent, D.D.
MEEKNESS.
Fruit of Spirit, Gal. v. 23.
Christ's example. 2 Cor. x. i ; Matt.,
xi. 29; Isa. liii. 7 ; Matt. xii. 18-20;
Luke xxii. 63-65 ; xxiii. 11, 32-39.
We are to be meek, Eph. iv. 1-2 ; Col..
iii. 12-13 ; I Pet. iii. 4 ; Jas. i, 21 ; Gal.,
vi. I ; I Pet. iii. 15 ; 2 Tim. ii. 25,
Promises to the meek, Ps. xxii. 26 ;.
XXV. 9 ; xxxvii. 11 ; cxlvii. 6 ; cxlix. 4 ;
Isa. xxix. 19 ; Matt. v. 5.
THE MOON AN EMBLEM OF
THE CHURCH.
Ps, xix. 4, 5 ; Song of Sol. vi. 10 ^
Gen. i. 17 ; Eph. ii. 6 ; Ps. viii. 3 ; John.
XV. 16 ; Ps. Ixxxix. 37 ; Eph. iii. 10 ; Job
xxxi. 26; Isaiah ii. 5 ; Deut. xxxiii. 14
John XV. 16 ; Isaiah xxx. 26.
AS— SO.
As Moses lifted up the serpent. . . .so-
must the Son of Man be lifted up, that
whosoever believeth in Him should not
perish.but have eternal life. John iii. 14
15-
As thou hast believed, sa be it done-
unto thee. Matt. viii. 13.
As far as the east is from the west, sa>
far hath He removed our transgressions
Psalm ciii. 12,
As we have received Christ Jesus the
Lord, so walk ye in Him. Col. ii. 6,
As the Father hath loved me, so have
I loved you. John xv. 3.
As the bridegroom rejoiceth over the:
bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee
Isaiah Ixii. 5.
As ye have received of us how ye ought
to walk, so ye would abound more, &c. .
I Thess. iv. i.
As thy days, so shall thy strength be..
Deut. xxxiii. 25.
i As Thou hast sent Me into the world,..
so have I sent them. John xvii. 18.
As He .... is holy, so be ye holy, l:
Peter i. 15.
As He is, so are we in this world.
Verse 31. Best Gift, Matt. v. G ; Luke] i John iv. 17.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS,
2191
THE "AS
AND -SO
BIBLE.
OF THE
1. The as and so of God's sovereignty.
Isaiah Iv. 9 ; Micah iv. g ; Rom. xi. 33 ;
Isaiah Iv. 8.
2. The as and so of God's love and
mercy. Psalm ciii, 13; Isaiah Ixvi. 13;
Isaiah liv. 9, 10 , Psalm ciii. 11, 12.
^ 3. The as and so of imparting. i
Peter iv. 10 ; Matt. x. 8.
4. The as and so of the uncertainty of
life. Psalm ciii. 15.
5. The as and so of example. Read
I Peter ii. 21.
(i.) His obedience to His Father,
[ohn xiv. 31.
(2.) Meekness under injuries. Isaiah
liii. 7.
(3.) Readiness to forgive. Col. iii. 13.
(4.) Greatness of His love. John xv.
9 ; John XV. 12.
6. The as and so of degree of holiness
required of us. i John iv. 17; i Peter
i, 15 ; Col. ii.. 6 ; i Thess. iv. i.
7. The as and so 01 encouragement to
those who work for God. i Thess. ii. 4 ;
ECC, IX. 14-18.
Besieged little city. Luke iv. 6.
Poor wise man. 2 Cor. viii. g ; i Cor*
i. 24.
By wisdom delivered. i Cor.i.i8,25,
None remembered. Isaiah liii. 3.
Despised. 1 Cor. i. 18 ; Heb. iv. 8,
Words heard in quiet. Job vi. 24
Ez. i. 25 ; Luke x, 42.
Isaiah Iv. 10, 11.
E.
PITH AND ESSENCE OF THE.
GOSPEL IN TWO WORDS.
Whosoever, for those without. Johm
iii. 16.
Whatsoever, for those within. Johrfc
xiv. 13,
TWIN SCRIPTURAL DOCTRINE..
Come to Me. Abide in Me. Believe-
this and all difficulties vanish.
Abide not only for successful work,
but for answered prayer. — John xv. 4,7.
Joyful living. — John xv. 11. Actual*
safety, — ^John xv. 6.
Notice how often "in Christ," occura
in Ephesians and Colossians,
EVERLASTING.
Everlasting life. John vi. 4, 7.
Everlasting love. Jer. xxxi. 3.
Everlasting joy. Isaiah xli. 7.
Everlasting light. Isaiah xl. 19.
Everlasting consolation. 2 Thess. ii. 16.
Everlasting kindness. Isaiah liv, 8.
Everlasting salvation. Isaiah xiv. 17.
Everlasting strength. Isaiah xxvi. 4.
Everlastmg mercy. Psalm ciii. 17.
Everlasting covenant. Heb. xiii. 20.
THOUGHTS.
I thought. 2 Kings v. 14.
God hates thoughts. Psalm cxix. 113,
Forsake unrighteous thoughts. Isaiah
Iv. 8.
Not hid from God. Job xlii. 2.
He understands afar off. Psalm
cxxxix. 2.
He understands all the imaginations.
2 Chron. xxviii. 9.
Try me and know my thoughts.
Psalm cxxxii. 23.
Why do thoughts arise. Lukexxiv.38.
Take no thought. Matt. vi. 25.
My thoughts not your thoughts.
Isaiah Iv. 8,
God's thoughts towards us. Jer.xxix.
II ; Psalm xl. 5. i
How precious. Psalm cxxxix. 17. I
WANTED FOR OUR COUNTRY.
1. Men like Daniel. Dan. ix. 3, 4 ;
Deut. xi. 25.
2. Men like Shadrack and his brethren
Exodus XX. 4, 5 ; Dan. iii. 4, 7, 23, 25, 28^
3. Men in authority. Neh. xiii. 4-9 ;
Jude 3, 4 ; Rev. xiv. 10, li.
4. Men like Paul, i Cor. xii. ^ .
ii. 2, 13.
5. Men like the Bereans. Acts xvii..
10. 12 ; Deut. xxix. 29 ; John xvi. 13 ;,
Matt. iv. 10, II.
6. Young men likejabez. 2Thess.ii.8.
7. Young women like gracious Ruth..
Ruth i. 16, 17 ; ii. 11, 12 ; i John iii. 14;.
Psalm ci. 1-4.
8. Matrons, like the pious Shunamitc
2 Kings iv. 8, 13 ; Titus ii. 5 ; i Tim. v..
9- 14-
9. Fathers, like Abraham. Gen, xix,.
19.; Prov. X. 21 ; Luke xix. 20, 24, 26,
10. Brethren, like Aaron and Hur
Exodus xvii. 9-12; 2 Thess. iii. i, 2.
11. Sisters, like Mary and Martha..
Luke X. 38, 39; John xii. 2; INIatt.
XX v. 37-40.
:a20
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
.. ileads oi families, like Caleb.
.- 13 X.2 ; Num.xiv.24 ; Joshua xxiv.15.
ij. VV'ives. Prov, xxxi. 10-31.
14. Mothers, like Hannah, i Sam.i.
-lo, II, 24-28.
15. Maidens. 2 Kings v. 1-4, 15 ;
Prov. XV. 23.
16. Servants of Christ, like Barnabas.
Acts xi. 22-26; ix. 27; Gal. vi. 2 ; i
Thess. V. 14.
THE DIVINE SHALL.
1. As assuring us of the saving power
iof faith. Rom. i. 17 ; John v. 24; xi.
25, 26 ; Acts X. 43 ; xvi. 31 ; Rom. x.6-9.
2. As assuring us of an answer to
iprayer. Pro. viii. 17 ; Deut. iv. 29 ;
Isa. xl. 31 ; Job xxii. 27 ; Matt, vi 6;
■v. 6; Luke xi. 13; John xvi. 23, 24;
Luke xi. 9 ; John xv. 7 ; Luke xviii. 7, 8 ;
James i, 5; Rom. x. 13; Phil. iv. 19;
I John v. 4, 5.
3. As it assures us of the success of
God's word. Isa. Iv, 9-13 ; Num. xiii.
•9; Lukexxi. 33; iCor. xv. 58; Gal.vi.9.
4. As showing us the evil of unbelief.
John iii. 36 ; Mark xi. 24 ; James ii. 3 ;
Matt. xvii. 19, 20 ; xiii. 58 ; John xi. 40 ,
iii. 33 ; Matt. xvii. 20.
THE "SHALL NOTS" OF JOHNS
GOSPEL,
THE BELIEVER.
Shall not come into condemnation,
ijohn v. 24.
Shall not walk in darkness. John
'fiii. 12.
Shall never hunger. John vi. 35.
Shall never thirst. John iv. 14.
Shall not be plucked out of Christ's
land. John x. 28.
Shall not perish. John iii. 15.
Shall never die. John xi. 26.
W. H. S.
altogether in these ten verses foi the
welfare of God's wayfaring men.
THE BOOK OF LIFE.
(Dan. xii. i.)
At that time my people shall be deUv-
ered, every one that shall be found writ-
I ten in the book.
j Written in the book. Ex. xxxii. 32,;
I Rev. XX. 12 ; Matt. iii. 16 ; Rev. iii. 5 ;
xxi. 7 ; Isa. iv. 3 ; Luke x. 20 ; Phil.
iv. 3 ; Heb. xii. 23 ; Psa. Ixi. 8.
Contrast (not written. ) Psa. Ixix. 28 ;
Rev. xiii. 8 ; xvii. 8 ; xx. 15. See also,
Ezek. xiii. 9 ; Psa. cxxxix. 16; Num. xvi.
5 ; John X. 14 ; 2 Tim. ii. 19.
If our names be written then. Rom.
viii. 16, 17 ; 2 Cor. i. 22.
ISAIAH XXXV.
The word "shall" occurs twenty-two
tijiics in this short chapter of ten verses.
And each time it prefaces a promise of
•comfort or joy to God's people who
walk in the way of holiness.
The "shall" of blessing and comfort
'^occurs nine times. Verses 1,2,5,6, 7, 8, g.
The " shall" of Deliverance occurs
tcight times. Verses 7, 8, 9, 10.
The " shall" of joy occurs five times.
Verses 1,2, ro.
There are thirty-five clear promises
HAPPINESS.
Whoso trusteth in the Lord happy is
he. Prov. xvi. 20.
Happy is that people whose God is the
Lord. Psa. cxliv. 15.
Blessed is every one that feareth the
Lord, that walketh in His ways
Happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well
with thee. Psa. cxxviii. i, 2.
HOLD FAST.
That which is good, i Thes. v. 2i.
The form of sound words. 2 Tim.i. 13.
The faithful word. Tit. i. 9.
The confidence and rejoicing of the
hope. Heb. iii. 6.
Our profession. Heb. iv. 14.
The confession of our hope. Heb. X.
•^race. Heb. xii. 28. (margin.)
HARVEST.
The believer's harvest time. John iv
The sinner's harvest time. Prov. x. 5.
God's harvest time. Matt. xiiJ.'jo.
JUSTIFICATION.
We are justified judicially by God.
Rom. viii. 31.
We are justified meritoriously by
Christ. Isa. liii. n.
We are justified medially by faith.
Rom. V. I.
We are justifiel evidently bv works.
J as. ii. 24.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
22K
HARVEST LESSONS.
" Who hath ears to hear let him hear.'*
Matt. xiii. 19.
I. Harvest time proclaims God's
faithfxdness. While the earth remaineth,
seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat,
and summer and winter, and day and
night shall not cease. Gen. viii. 22.
2. Harvest time tells of God's goodness.
Thou crownest the year with Thy good-
nes ; the valleys are covered over
with corn ; they shout for joy, they also
sing. Psa. Ixv. 11, 13.
3. Harvest time is a time for prayer
and work. The harvest truly is plenteous
but the labourers are few ; pray ye there-
fore the Lord of the harvest, that he will
send forth labourers into His harvest.
Matt. ix. 37, 38.
4. Harvest time is a time of joy. They
joy before Thee according to the joy in
harvest, Isa. ix. 3. He that goeth forth
and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall
doubtless come again with rejoicing,
bringing his sheaves .with him. Psalm
cxxvi. 6.
5. Harvest time is a testing time. Let
both grow together until the harvest :
and in the time of harvest I will say to the
reapers. Gather ye together first the
tares, and bind them in bundles to burn
them ; but gather the wheat into My
bam. Matt. xiii. 20.
6. Harvest time is connected with seed
time. Whatsoever a man soweth that
shall he also reap. He that soweth to
his flesh shall of the flesh reap corrup-
tion ; but he that soweth to the Spirit
shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
Gal. vi, 7, 8.
7. Harvest time speaks loudly to the
unsaved. The harvest is past, the sum-
mer is ended and we are not saved, jer.
viii. 30.
"Othat men would praise the Lord
for His goodness, and for His wonderful
'rt'orks to the children of men." Psalm
evil. 8.
THE HOPE OF THE GOSPEL.
What is our hope? 1 Thess. ii. ig.
1. Hope is the desire for and expecta-
tion of future good. Jer.xvii.7. Hence,.
2. The sources of hope are : — i . Christ
and His resurrection. — i Peter i. 3. 2.
The gospel truth. — Col.i.5 ; and 3. The-
entire revelation contained in the Holy
Scriptures. — Rom, xv. 4.
3. The value of hope. Col. i. 22, 23;.
Rom. viii. 24 ; i- Thess. v. 8.
4. Only believers have hope. Men
without God have no hope. Eph. ii. 12;
I Thess. iv. 13 ; Job xi, 20.
5. The pious are now prisoners of
hope. Zech. ix. 12 ; Rom. viii. 24.
6. Hope is to be waited for. Rom.
viii. 25 ; I Thess. i. 3.
7. The use to be made of hope. i..
We must not be ashamed of our hope.-
Psalm cxix. 116; Rom. v. 5. 2. We
are to defend it and be ready to give a
reason for it. — i Peter iii. 15. 3. We-
should so walk in the Spirit that hope
may abound in us. — Rom.xv.13. 4- We
should thus cultivate hope as one of the-
three sister graces. — i Cor. xiii. 13. 5.
It should impart holy boldness.; — 2 Cor.
iii. 12. 6. We should hope to the end.,
— 1 Peter i. 13.
8. The pious dead rest in hope. Prov,.
xiv. 32 ; Acts ii. 26 ; Acts xxiii. 6-8.
9. There is hope for the little ones. '
Jer. xxxi. 17.
10. The objects of hope. These are.
all the good, the glory, the joy, the-
happiness of the eternal kingdom.
Paradise, access to the tree of life,
honors, crowns, white robes, thrones,
equality with angels, society of the
redeemed, and more than has entered
into the heart of man, are reserved for
those who love God. i Cor. ii. 9.
11. There is for all men only one hope.
Eph. iv. 4 J I Peter i. 21 j Psalm xiii. 5;,
Col. i. 5 ; Acts iv. 12.
It is good that a man should hope-
Lam, iii. 26; Psalm cxxx. 7 ; Titus ii.13..
n T. Ta. .
222
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
THE HOPE OF THE GOSPEL.
1. A good hope. 2 Thess. ii. 16.
2. A blessed hope. Titus ii. 13.
3. A joyful hope. Heb.iii.6 ; Rom.v.3.
4. A sure, firm hope. Heb. vi. 18.
5. A living or lively hope, i Peter i.3.
6. A saving hope. Rom. viii. 24.
7. A glorious hope. Col. i. 27.
8. A purifying hope, i John iii. 3.
BAALAM'S PARABLES— PRO-
GRESSIVE EXPERIENCE.
1. Separation, Num. xxiii. 11. 12.
1. By blood, Ex. xi. 7.
2. By God's presence, Ex. xxxiii. 16.
2. Standing, Num. xxiii. 21 ; Isaiah
xlii. 19 ; Col. ii. 10, 16 ; Eph. i. 6; Col.
i. 22.
3. Sanctification, Num. xxiv. 5, 6, 7.
1. Pilgrim life, i Pet. ii. 11.
2. Fruitfulness, Psa. i. 3.
3. Dominion, i John iv. 4.
4. Glorification, Num. xxiv. 17.
1. Vision, I John iii. 2,
2. Daybreak, 2 Pet. i. 19.
3. Victory, i Cor. xv. 25.
ROLL
Thy way upon the Lord, Ps. xxxvii. 5.
Thy MTorks, Prov. xvi. 3.
Thy burden, Psa. Iv, 22.
He rolled (margin) Himself, Psa.xxii.8.
RAIN
Jlis doctrine, Deut. xxxii. 2.
His favour, Prov. xvi. 15.
Himself, Psa. Ixxii. 6.
FILLED .
With the Spirit, Eph. v. 18.
IVith comfort, 2 Cor. vii. 4.
With joy, 2 Tim. i. 4 ; Rom. xv. 18.
With fruits of righteousness, Phil.i.ii.
With knowledge of His will. Col. i. 9.
With good things, Luke i. 53.
With all the fulness of God, Eph.iii.19.
I AM THINE.
For safety, Psa. cxix. 94,
P"or service, i Chron. xii. 18.
For property, i Kings xx. 4.
For delivei^ance, Isa. Ixiii. 19.
GIRDED.
John xxi. 18 : Isa. xlv. 5 ; Psa. xviii.
39 ; Psa, ^'^v. IX.
THE WINDOWS OF THE BIBLE.
The window of deliverance. Joshua
ii. 21.
The window of communion. (It was
" above".) Gen. vi. 16.
The window of prayer. Dan. vi. 10.
The window of faith, (because an
illustration of " according to thy faith
be it unto thee.") 2 Kings xiii. 7.
The window of contempt. 2 Sara.
vi. 16, 20, 22.
The window of disappointment.
Judges v. 28-30.
The window of destruction. 2 Kings
ix- 30-37-
These are the windows we look
through. Now notice the two windows
through which God looked.
1. A window opened to destroy.
Gen. vii. 11.
2. A window opened in blessing. Mai.
iii. 10.
CHOSEN.
When? — ^Johji xv. 16; 2 Thess. ii. 15
Whom ? — I Cor. i. 27 ; Eph. i. 4,
i Why ? — Deut. vii. 7.
I Whence? — John xv. 19.
How ? — Isa. xlviii. 10 ; Psa. cv. 43.
Wherefore ? — Psalm xxxiii. 13 ; Eph.
i. 4; Num. xvi. 3-7; Acts ix. 15 ; i Pet.
ii. 9 ; Deut. xxi. 5 ; 2 Chron. xxix. 1 1 ;
2 Tim. ii. 4; Psalm xlvii. 4; xxv. 12;
Ixxxix. 3 ; Isaiah xliii. 20 ; xli. 9 ; Rev
xvii. 4 ; Psalm Ixv. 4.
Whosoever. John iii. 16; v, 4.
Whomsoever. Luke xii. 48.
Whatsoever. John ii. 5 ; xiv. 13.
Whensoever. Mark xiv. 7.
Whithersoever. Matt. viii. 19 ; Rev.
xiv. 4.
BIBLE TESTIMONIES ABOUT
INTEMPERANCE.
Guilty Cause of Sin. — Gen. iii. 6 ; i
John ii. 16 , 2 Peter ii. 13 ; Numbers
vi. 3 ; Gen. ix. 20-25 ; Gen. xix. 32-38 ;
Zeph. ii. 9 ; Prov. xx. i ; xxiii. 29, 30.
Prohibition. — Proverbs xxiii. 31, 32 ;
Eph. v. 18; Isa. V. 22; Luke xxi. 34;
Jer. XXXV. 6.
Abstinence. — i Thess. v. 22 ; Rom.
xiv. 21 ; I Cor. X. 31 ; i Cor. ix. 25, 27,
I Cor. viii. 8-13 ; Luke xxii. 17-20 ; Ex.
xii. 19 ; I Cor. x. 16 ; Rom. xiv. 13 ;
xiii. 10-14 ; I Cor. vi. 19, 20.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
223
THE INVALID'S NOSEGAY.
A refreshing scnpture nosegay, gath-
ered by a friend, and affectionately pre-
sented to Zion's invalids.
fudges xvui. 24, last clause.
When Sick, John xi. 3 ; Ps. xli. 3 ;
12. Cor. V. I.
When Weak. Isaiah xl. 29 ; xxvi. 4.
When Weary. Isaiah xxxii. 2 ; Matt,
xi. 28.
When Oppressed. Isaiah xxxviii.14 ;
Ps. Iv. 22.
When Tempted. James i. 12 t 1 Cor.
ac. 13.
When apprehensive of Judgment. —
1 Sam. vi. 20; Rom. viii. 31-34; Psalm
'ciii. 13, 14 ; 2 Tim. iv. 8.
Please examine each, and tie all up
'With faith.
"WHAT THINKEST THOU."
(Matt. xvii. 25).
I. . . .meditate on Thee. Ps. Ixiii. 6.
My meditation of Him shall be sweet.
Ps. civ. 34.
I. . . .meditate in Thy Word. Psalm
'Cxix. 148.
Thy servant did meditate in Thy
statutes. Ps. cxix. 23.
I will meditate in Thy precepts. Ps.
cxix. 15.
Thy testimonies are my meditation.
Ps. cxix. 99 .
I muse on the work of Thy hands.
Ps. cxliii. 5.
Not that we are sufl&cient of ourselves
Ao think anything as of ourselves. 2
Cor. iii. 5.
Let the. . ..meditation of my heart
rbe acceptable in Thy sight. O Lord.
P'5. xix. 14,
Bringing into captivity every thought
to the obedience of Christ. 2 Cor. x. 5
"TAKE HEED."
Luke xi. 35 ; Heb. iii. 12 Deut. iv.9;
.1 Tim. iv. 16; I Cor. x. 12: 1 Cor.iii.io;
Mark iv. 24 ; Luke viii. 18 : 2 Peter i.
19 : Psalm xxxix. i : Col. iv. 17 ; Luke
;xii. 15 ; Hosea iv. 10.
JUDGMENT.
Day of. Rev. xxii. 12 ; Ecc. xii. 14 ;
Matt. xii. 36 ; xxv. 31, 32 ; Rev. xi. 18 ;
XX. 1 2 ; xiv. 6.
The judge. John v. 22, 27; xii. 48 ;
iMatt vii. 22. 2s ; Rom. xiv. 10, 12 ; 2
Tim iv. r. 8 ; Acts x. 42; xvii. 31 ;
Matt. xiii. 41, 42.
Exhortation. 2 Peter in. 7, 10, 14 , i
Peter iv. 17; Judexiv. 15 ; Johniii 18.19.
WHY SHOULD WE LOVE JESUS ?
To this question believers may reply
— because
He is God's beloved Son, in whom
His soul delighteth. Matt. iii. 17; Isa.
xlii. I.
He is full of grace and truth ; — the
brightness of God's glory, and the express
image of His person. John 1. 14 j
Heb. i. 3.
He is thechiefest among ten thousand,
and altogether lovely. Cant. v. 10, 16.
He is fairer than the children of men;
grace is poured into his lips. Psa.xlv.2.
And because —
He first loved us. i John iv. 19.
He laid down His life for His sheep.
John x. 15.
He died for us while yet sinners.
Rom. V. 8,
He suffered the just for the unjust,
that He might bring us to God. i
Peter iii. 18.
He made peace through the blood of
His cross. Col. i. 20.
He gave Himself for bur sins. Gal.i.4.
He redeemed us to God by His blood.
Rev. V. 9.
He hath loved us, and hath given
Himself for us. Eph. v. 2.
He quickened us when we were dead
in trespasses and sins. John v. 25 ;
Eph. \\. I.
He has given unto us eternal life.
John X. 28.
He has redeemed us from the curse
of the law. Gal. iii. 13.
He has delivered us from condemna-
tion. Rom. viii. i.
He has justified us by His blood.
Rom. V. 9.
"AND POUR CONTEMPT ON ALL
MY PRIDE."
The life and death of our Lord Jesus
Christ are a standing rebuke to every
form of pride to which men are liable.
Take for instance :
Pride of birth and rank. Matt.xiii.55,
Pride of w^ealth. Matt. viii. 20.
Pride of respectability. John i. 46.
Matt. ii. 23.
224
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Pride of personal appearance. Isaiah
liii. 2.
Pride of reputation. Matt. xi. 19.
Pride of independence, Luke viii. 3.
Pride of learning. John vii. 15.
Pride of superiority. Luke xxii. 27 j
Phil. ii. 8 ; Gal. iii. 13.
Pride of success. John i. 11 j John
vii. 5 ; Isaiah liii. 3.
Pride of self-reliance.
Pride of ability. John v. 19.
Pride of self-will. John v. 30.
Pride of intellect. John viii. 28.
Pride of bigotry. Luke ix. 50.
Pride of resentment. Luke xxiii. 34;
Matt. xxvi. 50.
Pride of reserve. Luke xxvi.38 ; Matt,
xxvi. 38 ; Luke ix. 22.
Pride of sanctity, Luke xv. 2.
But God forbid that I should glory,
save in the cross of our Lord Jesus
Christ, by whom the world is crucified
tmto me, and I unto the world. Gal.vi.14.
THE CHRISTIAN WALK.
1. Walk past. Eph. ii. 2 ; i Cor. vi.
11 ; Col. i. 21.
2. Walk in good works. Eph. ii. 10 ;
Isa. xliv, 21, 22 ; 2 Cor, v. 5 ; Gal, v.
22, 23 ; Phil, ii. 12, 13 ; 2 Cor. ix, 8.
3. Walk worthy. Eph. iv. I j 1 Thes.
ii. 12 ; Col. i. lo ; Phil, i, 27; Ps. i, i,
2, 3 ; I Pet. i, 13-16 ; Heb, iii. i ; i
Thes. iv. 7.
4. Walk humbly with God. Eph. iv.
17 ; Rom. xii. i, 2 ; Rom. vi. 36 ; 2 Cor.
vi. 14-16 ; Amos iii. 3.
5. Walk in love. Eph, v. 2 , John
XV. 12 J I Thes, iv. 9 ; i John iv. 20-21 ;
I John iii. 14 ; i John ii. 6.
6. Walk as children of light. Eph. v.
8 ; John xii. 36, 46 ; Johti viii. 12 ; Isa.
Ix. 19, 20 ; I John i. 5, 7 Ps. Ixxxix.
15, 16.
7. Walk circumspectly. Eph. v. 15 ;
Col. iv. 5 ; Ps. xxvii. il ; I Thess. iv.
12 ; Neh. v. 9. S. R. B.
THE CHRISTIAN'S WALK*
(Eph. iv. I.)
The first thing necessary for walk with
God is :
To be agreed. Amos. iii. 3.
l>-in^ now reconciled are made nigh.
L'ph. i). 17.
Called to God's kingdom and glory„
I Thes. ii. 12.
Accepted in the Beloved. Eph. i. 6.
Adopted as sons. Gal, iv. 5, 6.
Joint heirs with Christ. Rom. viii..
17 ; Gal. iv. 7.
Made children of God. Rom. viii. i6^
Called with an holy calling. 2 Tim. i. 9.
Therefore having this high position*
and privilege the Apostle exhorts us to
Walk worthy. Eph. ii. 4 ; i Thess.
ii. 12,
Being fruitful as Christ Himself. Col.
i. 10.
Hath chosen us, &c. John xv, 16 j,
Eph. i. 10.
increasing in knowledge of God. CoL
i. 10.
HOW TO WALK.
Eph.
With lowliness and meekness,
i. 2.
In the Spirit. Gal. v. 16.
By faith. 2 Cor. v. 7.
In newness of life. Rom. vi. 4.
Honestly. Rom. xii. 13.
In love. Eph. v. 2.
As children of light. Eph. v. 7.
As ye have received Christ Jesus so*
walk. Col. ii. 6.
In the light. John viii, 12.
In wisdom towards those without^
Col. iv. 5.
Not in darkness, i John i. 6.
So walk as Christ walked, and learn
of Him. I John ii. 6 ; Matt. xi. 29,
Walking with God. He will walk
with us. 2 Cor. vi. 16 ; Lev. xxvi. 12.
Take diligent heed to walk in Hi&
ways. Jos. xxii. 5.
Miss J. Wiggington.
LOVE TO THE BRETHREN.
The command. John xiii. 34.
Its characteristics, i Coi*. xiii. 4-8 ;.
Rom. xii. 9, 10 ; Phil, ii, 2.
Its measure, i John iv. 10, ii, with
John xiii. 34.
Is a test of new birth, i John iii. 14.
Is a proof to the world of our disciple-
ship. John xiii, 35.
SEVEN LINKS IN A WONDROUS
CHAIN.
Crucified together with Christ. GaL
ii. 20.
Quickened together with Chrl&t, CoL
ii. 13-
Raised together with Christ. Eph. ii..
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
^25
Seated together with Christ in heavenly j
places. Eph. ii. 7. |
Sufferers together with Christ. Rom. !
viii. 17. I
Heirs together with Christ. Rom. viii. I
17-
Glorified together with Christ. Rom,
viii. 17.
. The first and second are seen at the
cross and grave of Christ.
The third to the sixth form our present
privilege.
The seventh has its scene in the glory.
5. THE F.ND OF THE WALK.
Through the valley, Psa. xxiii. ^. In
white (washed), Rev. iii. 4. In the light
of the city, Rev. xxi. 24.
WALKING WITH GOD ~ COMPAN-
lONSHIP IN THE WAL^^.
I. Illustrations : Adam, Genesis iii. 8.
Enoch, Gen. v. 22-24. Noah, Gen. vi. 9.
Must of necessity agi-ee with each other.
Amos iii. 3.
WHERE THEY WALK.
Not in the counsel of the ungodly. Ps.
1. I. Not after the flesh. 2 Cor. x. 2.
Not according to the course of this world.
Eph. ii. 2.
THE LORD JLSUS.
1. The Lord Jesus as He was promis*
ed to our first parents. The seed who
should bruise the head of the serpent, be
their deliverer. Gen. iii. 15 ; iv. i.
2. The Lord Jesus as He was promis-
i ed to Abraham The seed in whom all
the families of the earth should be bless-
ed. Gen. xii. 1-3 ; xxii. 15-18 : John
viii, 56 ; Gal. iii. 16.
3. The Lord Jesus was to Jacob the
angel which redeemed him from all evil.
Gen. xlviii. 15, 16. And the Shiloh
which should come, unto whom the gath-
ering Of the people should be. Gen. xlix.
10.
4. To Moses Jesus was the angel of the
Lord's presence, his leader and guide.
Ex. xiii. 21, 22 ; xiv, 24, 25 ; Num. ix.
' 15.23 ; X. 33, 34 ; Deut. i. 33 ; Ps.
They walked on earth, but always ixxviii. 14 ; Ex. xxxiii. 13-15 ; xxiii. 20,
away from the world. Noah from the
flood ; Abraham from Mesopotamia and
Sodom ; Moses from the throne of
Egypt, Heb. xi. 24-26 ; Israel from'
Egypt and through the wilderness. Ex,
xiv. 29 ; Deut. ii. 7 ; Job through dark-
ness, Job xxix. 3 ; David in midst of
21, 23 ; Isa. Ixiii. 9 ; Iv. 4. Is so still.
John X. 2, 3, 4.
5. Jesus as Captain of the Lord's
host. Josh. V. 13-15 ; Isa. Iv. 4 ; Heb.
ii. 10 , 2 Tim. ii. 3. The drawn sword
— no hesitation in the conflict, and no
quarter to the enemy. Christ's soldiers
trouble, Psa. cxxxviii. 7 ; Isaiah through | committed to warfare with world, flesh,
fire and water, Isa. xiiii. 2 ; Daniel in j &c. No neutrality. Matt. xii. 30.
and out of the den, Dan. vi. 22 ;Peter on|-Enej;nies mighty. Eph. vi, 12. No
the water, Matt, xiv. 29 ; Apostles in and
out of prison. Acts iv. 16 ; John on
Patmos, Rev. i. 22.
3. HOW THEY WALK.
In the light, Ex. xiii. 21 , John viii.
12. In safety and on dry land, Ex. xiv.
22 ; Josh. iii. 17. At liberty. Psa. cxix, |
45 ; Dan. iii. 25. Humbly, Mic. vi. 8.
In peace, Mai. ii. 6. By faith, 2 Cor. \
•7-
4. WHO WALK.
The redeemed, Isa. xxxv. 9. The
lame, Matt. xi. 5. The saved, Rev. xxi.. i
24. '
^5
\ strengUi to cope with them. 2 Chron.
XX. 12. Our strength is in the Lo.a.
Eph. vi, 10. The battle is His — the es-
ponsibility His. 2 Chron. xx.. Ours to
obey orders. His plans may not be what
we would have chosen. His power and
wisdom infinite. Hewilllead Hispeople
on to victory, i Cor. xv. 57; 2 Cor. ii. 14.
6. The Lord Jesus a.s Redeemer Kins-
man. Job xix 25-27 ; Lev. xxv 25 ;
Ixvii, 49 ; Ruth ii 20 • iv 14 ; Jer. xxxii
7,8.
We are in the position of the brother
who is waxen poor, and has sold back
226
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
himself and his inheritance. Rom. iii 9-
24 ; vi 16 ; vii. 14 ; i Kings xxi 21, 25 ;
2 Kings xvii 1 7 ; Isa. Hi 3.
Man cannot redeem himself or his
brother. Job xxxvi 18, 19 ; Psa. xlix 7,
8 ; Matt, xvi 26 ; Mark x 26, 27.
The Redeemer must be near of kin to
have the right to redeem. Lev. xxv. 48,
49 ; Ruth ii. 20, margin. This Jesus is.
Heb. ii. 9-18. As man Jesus has the
right ; as God, He has the power to re-
deem. Isa. xlvii. 4 ; Psa. Ixxviii. 35 ;
Isa. xliv. 6 ; Luke i. 68 ; Job xxxiii. 23,
24 ; Isa. xlix. 24, 25 ; Ixiii. I ; Ps. Ixviii,
18 ; Eph. i. 14 ; Acts xx. 28 ; i Cor. vi.
19, 20 ; I Pet. i. 3-6 ; xviii. 19 ; John
viii. 36 ; Heb. ii. 14 ; i Peter ii. 9.
Purchased people — see margin.
Not a stranger. Job xix, — see mar-
gin : John X. 4, 5, 14 ; i Pet. i. 8.
Miss L. Howard.
those who give a tenth. Mai. iii, 10
Prov. iii. 9.
Examp.es oi giving. Heb. vii. i. In
Heb. vii. 3, we tind that Melchis^dcc
was a type of Christ. Made like uiito
the Son of God. Abraham the fatner
of the faithful was a type of the Chris-
tian. If then the type of the Christian
gave to the type of Christ a te^ith : how
much more shoul' /o give to Christ ?
who for our sakes b^jame poor, that we
through his poverty might be made
rich. See how the early Christians
gave. Acts ii. 44 ; iv. 34.
General rules laid down for giving.
Matt. X. 8 ; Luke vi. 38 ; 2. Cor. ix. 7 ;
viii. 7. M. D. M.'
FOLLOWING JESUS.
FOLLOWING JESUS — THE COMMAND^
1. Follow Me. John i. 43 ; Luke ix. 59.
Equally applicable to us now.
It is the mark of the Lord's people.
The sheep follow Him for they, know
His voice. John x. 4. My sheep hear
My voice and they follow Me. John x.
a 7. These are they which follow the
Lamb whithersoever He goeth. Rev.
xiv. 4.
2. How are we to follow Jesus in His
humility. Let this mind be in you,
which was also in Christ Jesus. Phil. ii.
5-8. I have given you an example that
ye should do as I have done to you. J no.
xiii. 3-17.
3. Follow Jesus in His meekness,
gentleness, and readiness to forgive, i
Pet. ii. 21-23.
4. Follow Jesus in His entire devotion
<to His Father's will. John iv. 34.
Miss L. H.
A GOOD ACTION.
Three things enter into its compoc;-
tion, viz., a right principle, a right rule,
and a right end.
The right principle is the love of
God. 2 Cor V. 14, 15.
The right rule is the Word of God.
2 Tim. iii. 16, 17.
The right end is the glory of God.
1 Cor. X. 31.
Be all my heart and all my days, i
Thess. V. 23.
Devoted to my Saviour's praise.
Col. i. 10.
And let my glad obedience prove.
John xiv. 21.
How much I owe, how much I love.
2 Cor. viii. 9,
" Create in me a clean heart, O God ,
and renew a right spirit within me."
Ps. ii. 10.
ON GIVING.
God claims a tenth of our possessions.
Lev. xxvii. 30 ; Num. xvii. 21.
God promises a rich blessing to
'THIS GREAT SIGHT." .
Exodus iii. 3.
Who will shew us any Good ?
I will shew thee greai and mighty things.
Jer. xxxiii. 3.
God is the Lord who hath shewed us
light. Ps. cxviii. 27.
He hath shewed strength vi'x'Ca. His arm.
Luke i. 51.
His righteousness hath He openly
shewed. Ps. xcviii. 2
The Lord our God hath shewed us
Ills glory. Deut, v. 24.
He hath shewed me His viavveU.>:is
kindness. Ps. xxxi. 21.
Grace hath been shewed from the
Lord. Ezra ix. 8.
Shewing mercy unto thousands. Ex.
XX. t).
Shewing hints S. of Sol. ii. 9,
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
227
GLAD TIDINGS. | We come now to the New Testament.
Ihe " Glad Tidings" 01 a Saviour and and here all the " fear nots" are Jesus'
His finished salvation, .are called in one i own. Matt. x. 26.
word, " The Gospel!'
By "faith" we look unto it. — Isa.
xlv. 22.
By " understanding" we look into it. —
Eph. i. 17-23.
By " hope" we look through it. — i
Pet. i. 13.
By the first we look unto it trustfully.
By the second we look into it in-
telligently.
By the third we look through it
expectantly.
Each prepares for its successor, and
all aid each other. The first invariably
precedes. We first believe, then we feel
or realize. By "faith" we come to
"understanding," and by these two we
attain to a clear and lively " hope." The
term " full assurance" refers to their
degree, which from the lowest to the
highest is the alone work of the Divine
Spirit.
GOD'S "FEAR NOTS."
To Abraham, the father of the faith-
ful. Gen. XV. i.
To Hagar, in the wilderness of Beer-
rsheba. Gen. xxi. 21.
To Isaac, at the same Beersheba.
Gen. xxvi. 24.
To Jacob, again at Beersheba, Gen.
xlvi. 3, 4.
To the trembling children of Israel,
with the Red Sea before them, and the
host of Pharaoh pressing on behind.
Exod. xiv. 13.
To Moses again, on the eve of a dead-
ly conflict with Og, the king of BashaUo
jNTum. xxi. 34.
Again, to the awe-stricken Gideon.
■Judges vi. 23.
Over the evangelical page of Isaiah,
there is scattered many a sweet and
precious " fear not." Isa. xli. 10, 13, 14 ;
xliii. 1,5: xliv. 2, 8; li. 7 ; liv. 4.
Jeremiah, too, has " fear nots," —
Jer. XXX. 10 ; xlvi. 27, 28 ; and Ezekiel,
one to make his forehead as adamant
Against apostate Israel. Ezek. iii. g.
To Daniel, the "man greatly beloved."
Daniel x. 12
For the persecuted, even unto death.
Matt. X. 28.
l^ur the mourner. Luke viii. 50.
For " Little faith," with his unbeliev-
ing cry. Matt. x. 31.
For the " little flock." Luke xii. 32.
For Paul, in his tempest-tossed bark.
Acts xxvii, 24,
And last, but not least. Rev, i, 17, 18.
'• FEAR NOT."
1, "Fear not, I have redeemed thee,"
Is. xliii. I ; li. II.
2. " Fear not, little flock." Luke xii.
32; Heb. xii. 28.
.3. "Fear not: for God is come to
prove you." Ex. xx. 20 ; Ps. xvii, 3,
4, " Fear not ye, for I know that ye
seek Jesus, which was crucified. MatL
xxviii. 5 ; Mai. iv. 2; Ps, xxii, 26,
5. "Fear ye not; standstill, and see
the salvation of the Lord." Ex. xiv, 13;
Jonah ii, 9 ; Is. xii, 2,
6, " My Spirit remaineth among you,
fear ye not." Haggai ii. 5 ; Zech. viii.
13; Mai. ii. 5.
7. " Fear ye not the reproach of men."
Is. li. 7 ; Matt. X. 26 ; Gen. xliii. 23.
"Fear not, I am the first and the
last." Rev. i. 17.
A PLACE FOR YOU.
John xiv, 2. I. Our place out of
Christ. Afar off. — Eph. ii. 13. Lost —
Luke xix. 10. Enemies. — ^James iv. 4,
Condemned. — John iii. 18. Judged. —
Rom. v. 18. Under wrath. — ^John iii. 36;
Doomed to torment,— ^Ps aim ix. 17. 2.
Our place through Christ. Access. —
Eph. ii. 18. Children. — i John iii. i.
Prepared place. — John xiv. 2. A city. —
Heb, ix. 16. Place of rest, inheritance.
— I Peter i. 4. 3. Our place in Christ.
Nearness. — Eph. ii. 13. Privilege. —
John xiv. 13. Power. — John xiv. 12.
Honor. — John xii. 26. Seated with Him.
— Eph. ii. 6. Reigning with Him. -Rev.
xxii. 5. 4. Our place for Christ. Sep-
aration.— ^John XV. 19. Reproof. — John
XV. 20. Sufivihng. John xv. 21
Testimony. — John xv. 27. Service —
John XV. 8.
228
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
POWER.
Power Irom on high. 2 Kings ii. 13-25.
Power over the sea. Exodus xiv.
13-22.
Power over the springs. Exodus xv.
23-27.
Prophecy of power. Isaiah xl. 1-8.
Promise of power. Luke xxiv. 44-53.
Condition of power. John xv. i-ii.
Gift of power. Acts ii. 1-13.
PAST. PRESENT, AND FUTURE.
We are often reminded from Psalm
xxiii, that the shepherds of the East do
not, as in this country, drive the sheep,
but go before them.
How sweet is it to remember this at
theeiid of this precious portion, goodness
and mercy follow us. So that, the Lord
before us, and goodness and mercy be
hind us, and the house of the Lord to
dwell in for ever, we have a complete
and eternal blessing.
The past. — The Shepherd died for
the sake of His flock. John xv. 13.
The present. — He careth for you. i
Peter v, 7.
The future. — He is preparing a place
for us. John xiv. 3,
GOD'S ORDER.
In self without Christ. Eph.ii.11,12.
In Christ brought nigh. Eph. ii. 13.
In the church walk in good works.
Eph. ii. 10.
Man often reverses the order of the
words, and would say : —
1. In the church.
2. To get out of self.
3. If at last we may get to heaven.
H.R.F.
ST. PAUL TELLS OF HIS OWN
CONVERSION.
To the Jews. Acts xxii.
To Agrippa. Acts xxvi.
To the Galatians. Gal. i. 13.16.
To the Philippians. Phil. iii. 4-5.
PRECIOUSNESS OF CHRIST.
The trial of his faith is more precious
than gold, i Peter i. 7.
His redemption with the precious blood
of Christ. I Peter i. 19.
! Christ as the source of life, a living
I stone, is precious, i Peter ii. 4.
Christ as a foundation, a chiel comber-
stone, is precious, i Peter ii. G.
Because of our faith ; to you which
believe He is precious, i Peter ii. 7.
Because this precious faith coaies to
us through the righteousness of our
God and Saviour Jesus Christ. 2 Peteri.i.
And because of the great and precious
promises in and through Jesus Christ,
2 Peter i. 4.
THE TABERNACLE AND ITS
TEACHING.
In the first place the whole, in some
way or other, typified the Lord Jesus in
His person or in His work. There were
fourteen different materials used in the
construction of the Tabernacle and its
furniture and vessels.
Gold. — The divine glo;^' of the Lord
Jesus the Son of God.
Silver. — This was derived from the
atonement-money of Israel, and presents
Christ as the ransom for the sinner.
Brass, — The divine character of Christ,
as able to sustain the fire of God's
holiness.
Blue. — The heavenly color : Christ as
the manifestation of the love and grace
of God.
Purple. — The kingly glory of Christ as
the Son of Man.
Scarlet, — Christ as the suffering One
unto death — the cross the pathway to
the glory.
Fine Linen. — Christ as the spotless,
righteous Son of Man.
Goats' Hair. — The memorial of Christ
as the Sin-offering.
Rams' Skins dyed Red. — Christ as the
One who by His blood made an atone-
ment for sin,
Bado;ers' Skins. — The outward aspect
of Christ toward the world, as without
form or comeliness.
Shittlm Wood. — The incorruptible . hu-
manity of Christ.
Oil for the Light. — The Spirit's fulness
shining forth in Christ.
Spices for Anoijtting and for Sweet
Lnccnsc. — The perfect graces and per-
fumes of the person of Christ.
Prfcious Stones. — The effulgent glories
and briehtness of Christ.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS
229
EVERLASTINC^.
a. Everlasting salvation. Isaiah xlv. 17,
2. Everlasting life. John iii. 16.
3. Everlasting strength. Isaiah xxvi. 4.
4. Everlasting love. Jer. xxxi. 3.
5. Everlasting joy. Isaiah xxxv. 10.
^. Everlasting light. Isaiah Ix. 20.
7. Everlasting God. Rom. xvi. 26.
MILE-STONES ON THE WAY.
Past, — I was chief of sinners. i
Tim. i. 15.
Present. — I am a nevr creature in
Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. v. 17.
Future. — I shall be like Him. i John
iii. 2.
In the meantime. — I press toward the
mark Phil iii. 14. T. W. Handford.
THE BIBLE AND SUNDAY
SCHOOL MACHINERY.
1. Importance of orderly arrange-
ment, I Cor. xiv. 40, 33.
2. Officers and Division of Labor, i
Cor. xii. 28 ; i Kings iv. 1-7.
3. Financial Arrangements, Neh.x.32 ;
I Cor. xvi, 2.
4. Illustrative Helps, Matt. xiii. 34.
5. Sacred Music, i Chron. xv. 22 ;
Neh. xii. 46 ; 2 Chron. xxix. 25-31.
6. Sunday-school exercises, Col. iii. 16.
7. Spirituality pervading all, 1 Cor.
«iii. I ; Ezek. i. 20 ; i Cor. xiv. 15.
THE BIBLE AND CHILDHOOD.
1. Man's- anxious question about every
child, Luke i. 61.
2. God's interest in childhood, Gen.
xxi. 17; Ps. cxlvii. 13; Prov. viii. 17.
3. God's care of His little ones, Deut.
-vii. 4; Psalm ciii. 13; Isaiah xl. ii; Mai.
iii. 7; Matt. vii. 11.
4. God saving men by homefuls, Gen.
vii. i; xix. 16; Josh. xxiv. 15; Acts xvi.
31-33-
5. Parents as God-appointed teachers,
Deut. vi. 4-7; Psalm Ixxviii. 5-7.
6. Children to be early saved, Matt,
xix. 41; 2 Chron. xxxiv. 3; i Sam. iii. i,
19.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS'
DECALOGUE.
1. Pray for inspiration, wisdom and
j)atience, 2 Tim. ii. 24; James i. 5.
2. Have faith in your convictions, Mark
xi. 22 ; John xiv. i; Heb. xi. 32, 33.
3. Respect your pupils, Luke xi. 11;
Matt. X. 29, 31.
4. Understand your own purpose,
Prov. xvii. 24 ; Luke vi. 39.
5. Obtain the attention and affection
of your pupils, Matt. vii. 6, 9, 10 ; i
Thess. ii. 7, 8.
6. Express thought precisely ; illus
trate freely, i Cor. xiv. 19 ; Matt. xiii. 34.
7. Teach arrangement and classiiica-
tion, 2 Tim. ii. 15 ; Eccl. iii. i, 11.
8. Christ's test ; fruit, Matt. vii. 16-20.
9. Review frequently, Isa. xxviii. 10.
10. Expect great results, Eccl. xi. i ;
Matt. xiii. 8.
" Thou, therefore, which teachest an-
other, teachest thou not thyself?"
PSALM CIII.
Forgiveth, Luke vii. 36-50.
Healeth, Luke viii. 43-48.
Redeemeth, Luke viii. 49-56.
Crowneth, Luke xv. 11-24,
Satisfieth, Luke xvii. 19, 20.
Saved in the Lord with an everlasting
salvation, Isa. xlv. 17.
Loved by Him with an everlasting
love, Jer. xxxi. 3. Miss Macpherson.
THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS.
Who can forgive sins but God only ?
Mark ii. 7.
If we were to ask, Who need the for-
giveness of sins ? the ready answer would
be. Sinners. But who are sinners ? All
men are sinners. See what God says,
Rom. iii. 10, 12, 23, and i John i. 8, 10.
Mark the distinction, we deceive ourselves
if we say we have no sin in our nature;
we make God a liar if we say we have
not sinned in our life. The dreadful
reality of sin in us, and of sin on us,
making us sinners in the deepest sense,
gives the teaching of the Word touching
forgiveness a large and living interest to
us all.
In the following Scriptures we have :
I. The fact that God forgives sin. I.
Stated, Exodus xxxiv. 6, 7; 2 Chron. vii.
14; Psalm Ixxxvi. 5; cxxx. 4; 2. Illus-
trated in David, Psalm xxxii. 5.- Sick of
the Palsy, Matt. ix. 2. Woman in Simon'i
house, Luke vii. 48.
230
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
2. The meritorious groimd on 7vhich
God forgives. Christ Jesus, Col. i. 14;
I John ii. 12 ; Acts x 43 ; Rom. iii. 24,
25. The question may be asked what
has Christ done that God forgives for
his sake ? see Heb. ix. 22-26 ; i Pet. iii.
t8 ; Isaiah liii. 5, 6.
3. The conditions in us necessary to
forgiveness. Faith, Acts xiii. 38. Re-
pentance, Acts iii. ig. Confession, i
John i. 9. Forsaking sin, Prov. xxviii.13.
4. The perfection of this forgivejtess of
G^d. I. Sins are blotted out, Isa. xliii.
35. 2. Totally removed from sight,
Isa. i. 18, 3. Forgotten for ever, Jer.
xxxi. 34 ; Heb. x. 17.
5. The consequences of forgiveness. We
have — I. Life, Col. ii.ti3. 2. Blessedness
in the soul, Ps. xxxii. i, 2 ; i John v. 10.
3. Praise in the heart, Isa. xii. i. 4.
The fear of God, Ps. cxxx, 4 ; Jer. xxxiii.
8, 9. 5. Reconciliation with God, Luke
XV. 12, 32. 6. Peace with God and joy
in the hope of the glory of God, Rom.
V, 1,2. J. A. R. Dickson.
CONTRASTS BETWEEN CHRIST
AND HIS PEOPLE.
My God, my God, why hast Thou
forsaken me, Ps. xxii. i ; Mark xiv. 20.
I will never leave thee nor forsake
thee, Heb. xiii. 5..
Why are Thou so far from helping
me? Ps. xxii. i.
The Lord is my helper, Heb. xiii. 6.
Thou hearest not, Ps. xxii. 2.
While they are yet speaking I will
hear, Isa. Ixv. 24.
I am a worm and no man, Ps. xxii. 6.
He hath made us kings and priests
unto God and His Father, Rev. i, 6.
Many bulls have compassed me, &c.,
for dogs have compassed me. Psalm
xxii. 12, 16.
The angel of the Lord encampeth
round about them that fear Him. Psa.
xxxiv. 7.
I sink in deep mire, Psa. Ixix. 2.
He brought me up also out of an
horrible pit, out of the miry clay, Psa-
xl. 2.
The floods overflow me, Ps. Ixix. 2.
When thou passest through the
rivers they shall not overflow thee, Isa.
xliii. 2.
I am weary of my crying, Ps. Ixix, 3.
God shall wipe away all tears from
their eyes. Rev. vii. 17 ; Isa. xxv. 8.
Reproach hath broken my heart, and
I am full of heaviness, Ps. Ixix. 20.
These things have I spoken unto you^
that your joy might be full, John xv. 11..
I looked for comforters, but I found.
none, Psa. Ixix. 20.
I will not leave you comfortless, John-
xiv. 18,
Now is my soul troubled, John xii. 27.
Let not your heart be troubled, John
xiv. I.
They gave me gall for my meat, and
in my thirst they gave me vinegar to-
drink. Psa. Ixix. 21.
He that drinketh of this water that 1
shall give him shall never thirst. My
flesh is meat indeed, John iv. 14 ; John
vi, 35-55-
I am poor and sorrowful, Ps. Ixix. 29,
Your sorrow shall be turned into joy,
John xvi. 20.
I am a worm and no man, Ps. xxii. 6.
. . . hath made us unto our God,.
kings and priests, Rev. i. 6.
I am forgotten as a dead man out of
mind, Ps. xxxi. 12.
Yet will I not forget thee, Isa. Ixix. 15.
Mine iniquities are gone over mine
head, Psa. xxxviii. 4.
Their sins and (their) iniquities will
I remember no more. The Lord hath,
laid on Him the iniquity of us all, Heb
viii. 12 ; Isa. liii. 6.
I am weary with my groaning ; all the-
night make I my bed to swim, Ps. vi. 6.
Then I said I have laboured in vain,.
Isa. xlix. 4.
All thy waves and billows are gone
over me. Psa. xiii. 7.
They all forsook him and lied, Matt.,
xxvi. 56
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
231
I will never leave thee nor forsake
thee, Heb. xiii. 5.
My God, my God, why hast thou for-
saken me. Matt, xxviii. 46.
Fear thou not, for I am" with thee,
Isa. xli. 10.
When they had platted a crown of
thorns they put it upon his head. Matt,
xxvii. 29.
I will give thee a crown of life, Rev.
xi. 10.
They put on him a scarlet robe, Matt,
xxvii. 28.
He that overcometh shall be clothed
in white raiment, Rev. iii. 5.
TIaey had no leisure so much as to
eat, Mark vi. 31.
The Lamb who is in the midst of the
throne shall feed them. Rev. vii. 17.
The Son of man hath not where to
lay His head, Luke ix. 58.
In my Father's house are many man-
sions. He brought me into His ban-
queting house, John xiv. 2 ; Cant. ii. 4-6.
Jesus being wearied with His journey
John iv. 6.
Come unto Me all ye that are weary
(Greek) . . . and I vnll give you rest,
Matt. xi. 28.
Jesus said I thirst, John xix. 28.
They shall not hunger nor thirst.
Let him that is athirst . . . come and
take the water of life freely, Isa. xlviii.
21 ; Rev. xxii. 17.
I looked and there was none to help,
Isa. Ixiii. 5.
In all their afflictions He was afflicted,
I will help thee, Isa, Ixiii. 9 ; xli. 10.
I cry in the day-time, but thou hearest
not, Psa. xxii. 2.
This poor man cried and the Lord
heard him, etc. Psa. xxxiv. 6.
They that hate me without a cause
are more than the hairs of mine head,
Ps. Ixix. 4.
I have loved thee with an everlasting
love, Jer. xxxi. 3.
Mine eyes fail while I wait for my
God, Ps. Ixix. 3.
Blessed are all they that wait for Him,
Isa. XXX. 18 ; Ps. xl. i.
They that would destroy me are
mighty, Psa. Ixix. 4.
If God be for us, who can be against
US: Rom. viii. 31. i
For thy sake I have borne reproach,
Psa. Ixix. 7, 9, 20.
Blessed are they which are persecuted
for righteousness" sake, Matt. v. 10 ; 2
Cor. xii. 10.
Reproach hath broken my heart. Psa
Ixix. 20.
He healeth the broken in heart, Psa
cxlvii. 3.
Shame hath covered my face. Psalra
Ixix. 7.
Whosoever believeth on Him shall
not be ashamed, Rom. x. 11.
I chastened my soul with fasting, Ps
Ixix. 10,
Thou preparest a table before me,
Psa. xxiii. 5.
I made sackcloth also my garment,
Psa. Ixix. I.
He hath clothed me with the garments
of salvation. He hath covered me with
the robe of righteousness. Isa. Ixi, 10.
I am in trouble, Psa. Ixix. 17.
Let not your heart be troubled, John
xiv. I.
I am full of heaviness, Ps, Ixix. 20.
Let all those that seek Thee rejoice
and be glad in Thee, Psa. Ixx, 4.
I looked for some to take pity, but
there was none, Psa. Ixix. 20.
The Lord pitieth them that fear Him,
Psa. ciii. 13.
For comforters, but I found none,
Psa. Ixix. 20.
I am He that comforteth you. Isaiah
xli. 12 ; John xix. 18.
A man of sorrows, Isa. liii. 3.
The joy of the Lord is your strength,
Neh. viii. 10.
Thy fierce wrath goeth over me, Psa,
Ixxxviii. 16.
There is therefore now no condemna-
tion to them who are in Christ Jesus,
Rom. viii. i.
This man hath done nothing amiss,
Luke xxiii. 41.
All we like sheep have gone astray,
Isa. liii. 16 ; Luke xviii. 10.
Thy terrors have cut me off, Psalm
Ixxxviii. 16.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror
by night, Psa. xci. 5 ; Isa. xii. 2.
Crown of thorns, John xix. 12.
Crown of glory, i Peter v. 4,'
Lover and friend hast thou put far
from me, Psa. Ixxxviii. 18.
2^2
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
There is a friend that sticketh closer
than a brother, Prov. xvii. 24 ; Jno. xv. 14.
He wondered that there was no inter-
cessor, Isa. lix. 16.
He ever liveth to make intercession.
Heb. vi. 25.
He hath made Him to be sin for us
who knew no sin, 2 Cor. v. 20.
Their sins and iniquities will I re-
member no more, Heb. x. 17 ; Mieah
vii. 19.
The Son of Man came to give His life
a ransom for many. Matt. xx. 28.
None of them can redeem his brother,
Psa. Ixix. 7.
I have redeemed thee, Isa. xliv. 22-24.
Nor give to God a ransom for him.
Psa. xlix. 7.
Neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy
One to see corruption, Psa, xvi. 10.
For I know that my Redeemer liveth
and that He shall stand at the latter day
upon the earth, etc., Job xix. 25-27.
Mrs. Meny.
CONTRASTS.
Psalm cvii.
They found no city to dwell in. ver. 4.
He led them to a city, verse 7.
Hungry and thirsty, verse 5.
Satisfied, filled, verse 9.
In darkness and the shadow of death,
verse 10.
He brought them out of darkness and
the shadow of death, verse 14.
Bound in affliction and iron. ver. 10.
He brake the bars of iron in sunder,
verse 16.
Afflicted, ver. 17.
Healed, ver. 20.
Near death, ver. 18.
Singing. (Margin.) ver. 22.
Stormy wind. ver. 25.
Calm. ver. 29.
Up and down. ver. 26.
Quiet, ver. 30.
Great waters, ver. 22.
Their desired haven, ver. 30'.
Mrs. M.
GOD'S ARM.
Thou hast with Thine arm redeemed
Thy people. Psalm Ixxvii. 15.
A mighty arm. Psalm Ixxxix. 13.
A strengthening arm. Psalm Ixxxix.
21 ; Luke i. 51.
A holy arm. Psalm xcviii. i ; Isaiah
lii. 10.
A glorious arm. Isaiah Ixiii. 13,
A high arm. Actsxiii. 17.
A stretched-out arm. Deut. v. 15.
An everlasting arm. Deut. xxxiii. 27.
Be Thou their arm every morning.
Isaiah xxxii. 2.
His arm shall rule. Isaiah xl. 10.
He shall gather the lambs with His
arms. Isaiah xl. 11.
He took them up in His arms. Mark
X. 16.
His arms like polished brass. Daniel
X. 6.
On Mine arm shall they trust. Isaiah
li. 5.
Hast thou an arm like God ? Job xl. 9
Miss McP.
HIDING PLACES.
Adam J^id under the trees. Gen. iii. 8-
Rejectors of Christ will cry to the
rocks to Aide them. Rev. vi. 16,
I flee unto Thee to /tide me. Psalm
cxliii. 9.
He shall Mde me. Psalm xxvii. 5.
Hide them in the secret of Thy pre-
sence. Psalm xxxi. 20,
Thy hidden ones. Psalm Ixxxiii. 3.
Your life is hid with Christ in God.
Col. iii. 3.
Ye shall be hid. Zeph. ii. 3.
Thou shalt hide them. Psalm xxxi. 20.
Thou art my hiding place. Psalm
xxxii. 7.
SHARERS WITH CHRIST.
In life. I John iv. 9 ; i John v.' 10.
Col. iii. 4.-
In wealth. Rom. viii. 17 ; 1 Cor. 1. 5.
In power. Phil. iv. 13 ; 2 Tim. i. 7.
In love. John xv. 9 ; John xiv. 21 ;
John xvii. 23.
In joy. John XV. ii.
In sufferings. Phil. iii. 10.
In glory, i Thess. ii. 12 ; i Cor. xv.
43 ; Phil. iii. 21.
Miss McP.
OF
CONTRAST AND SIMILARITY
CHRIST'S TEACHING.
Lengthened interview between one of
the most respectable and one of the least
respectable. John iii. and iv.
Specially useful to us in noticing
Christ's different dealing, and yet it is the
same truth that saves. Jno. iii. iv.
A man of the Pharisees named Nico-
demus, a ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus
by night and said unto Him, Rabbi we
know that thou art a teacher. John iii.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
233
A woman of Samaria— no name given
— she a sinner, I must needs go through
Samaria. Sixth hour — noon. The woman
-saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou
art a prophet. John iv.
Christ does not waste time but comes
at once to the root of the matter,
♦'Ye must be bom again." "He would
have given thee living water."
Both make the same mistake, think-
ing it literal birth and water.
How can a man ? From whence then
hast thou that living water ?
Christ reiterates the truth three times :
Bom again, verses 3, 5, 7. Water,
thrice in verse 14.
Contrasts between earthly and heaven-
ly, and culminating in everlasting life.
Bom of the flesh is flesh.
Drinketh of this water shall thirst
agam.
Born of the Spirit is spirit.
Water that I shall give him shall never
thirst.
But have everlasting life.
Springing up into everlasting life.
And this not purchased or earned, but
given.
God so loved the world that He gave.
If thou knewest the gift of God.
One of the first consequences of talk-
^g with Jesus. Ignorance shewn.
Art thou a master of Israel and know-
est not these things ?
Ye worship ye know not what.
Sin revealed.
This is the condenmation, men loved
darkness rather than light.
Go call thy husband and come hither.
Tells both of the near approach —
The Son of man must be lifted up.
The hour cometh and now is.
Faith the ground work.
Believe and believeth seven times to
Nicodemus.
But once. Woman believe me.
Assurance.
To Nicodemus, general. We speak that
we do know and testify.
To the woman, definite and personal,
I that speak unto thee am He.
Same spiritual worship.
Every one that is born of the Spirit
must worship Him in spirit.
Reject. Ye receive not our witness.
Accept. Is not this the Christ ?
Bearing testimony.
Nicodemus timidly, some time after,
-among his associates.
Doth our law judge any man.
The woman at once boldly among hers.
Come, see a man.
Result. Unbelief, ridicule.
Art thou also of Galilee. Seaich.
After service. Then came also Nicode-
mus and brought a mixture.
A great company of priests were obedi-
ent to the faith. Acts vi. 7.
Immediate compliance.
They went out of the city and came to
Him.
She has the honor of being Christ's
first missionary.
Results — Many of the Samaritans be-
lieved on Him, for the saying of the
woman.
Many more believed because of His
own word. See also Acts viii. 5, 6.
Miss E. Bilbrough.
SCRIPTURE CONTRASTS.
In me (that is, in my flesh) ^ dwelleth
no good thing. Rom. vii. 18. Ye are
complete in Christ. For in Him dwell-
eth all the fulness of the Godhead
bodily. Col. ii. 9, 10.
There is therefore now no condemna-
tion to them which are in Christ Jesus.
Rom. viii. i. We must all appear be-
fore the judgment seat of Christ. (That
is, the believer cannot come into judg-
ment or condemnation ; but his works,
as a believer, must be manifested before
the judgment seat of Christ, as the
context implies.) 2 Cor. v. 10.
Without Me ye can do nothing. John
XV. 5. I can do all thinqs through Christ,
which strengtheneth me. Phil. iv. 13.
Who hath saved us, and called us
with an holy calling, not according to
our works, but -according to His own
purpose and grace. 2 Tim. i. g. Work
cnit your own salvation with fear and
trembling, for it is God which worketh
in you both to will and to do of His
good pleasure. Phil. ii. 12, 13.
They are not of the zuorld, even as I
am not of the world. John xvii. 16.
Use the world, as not abusing it. i Cor.
vii. 31.
Wherefore, let him that thinketh he
standeth take heed lest he fall, i Cor.
x. 12. I give unto them (My sheep)
eternal life, and they shall never perish.
John X. 28.
234
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Draw not nigh hither ; put off thy
shoes from off thy feet, for the place
whereon thou standest is holy ground.
Exod. iii. 5, Having therefore, brethren,
boldness to enter into the holiest by the
blood of Jesus. Lei us draw near with
a true heart in full assurance of faith.
Heb. X. 19, 22.
For it is not possible that the blood
of bulls and of goats should take away
sins. Heb. x. 4. The blood of Jesus
Christ His Son cieanseth us from all
sin. I John i, 7.
Sin dzuellcth in me. Rom^ vii. 17. He
that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God,
and God in kbn. i John iv. 16.
He weakened My strength in the way.
Ps. cii. 23. The mighty God. Isaiah
ix. 6. Upholding all things by the
Word of His/(?w^r. Heb. i. 3.
A Man of sorrows, and acquainted
with grief. Isaiah liii. 3. These things
have I spoken unto you, that My joy
might remain in you. John xv. 11.
In His days shall the righteous y?(?«mA.
Ps. Ixxii. 7. In the world ye shall have
tribulation^ John xvi. 33.
Whom having not seen, ye love; 3
Peter i. 8. We see Jesus. Heb. ii, 9.
Eyery man shall bear his own burden.
Gal. vi. 5. Cast thy burden ut>on the
Lord and He shall sustain thee. Ps.
Iv. 22.
My Son give Me thine heart. Prov.
xxii. 26. Keep thin^ heart with all
diligence. Prov. iv. 23.
Father, if it De possible, let this cup
pass Jrom Me. Matt. xxvi. 39, The
cup which My Father hath given Me,
^hall I not drink it ? John xviii, .\i,
W. C.
AlOUNTAIN GLOOM AND MOUN-
TAIN GLORY.
The mountains of Scripture will re-
pay the climber. Morley Punshok.
1. Aaarat. — Sin, and sorrow, and
saving grace. Gen. vii. i ; viii. i, 15-22.
2. Moriah. The typical sacrifice.
Gen. xxii. 14.
3. Horeb. — The call of Moses. Ex-^-'ms
ii. 10, 12.
4. Sinai. — God and man face to face..
Exodus xxxiv. 28-35.
5. Pisgah. — Visions of home. Deut.
iii. 27.
6. Nebo, — Rest for the weaiT. Deut,
xxxiv. I, 8.
7. Carmel. — The battle of the Gods.
I Kings xviii. 21.
8. Mount of Transfiguration. — Divine-
fellowships. Mark ix. 2, 8.
j 9. Calvary. — Glory breaking through-
! the gloom. Matt, xxvii. 45.
I 10. Olivet. — Memories and anticipa-
tions. Acts i, 12. T. W. Handford..
A FEW TEXTS FOR THE SORROW-
' FUL WIDOW.
Exodus xxii. 22 ; -Deut. x. 18 ; Psalm
;xlvi. 9 ; Psalm Ixviii. 5 ; .Hosea xiv, 3;
Isaiah liv. 5 ; Isaiah Ixvi. 13 ; i Tim. v.
\ ; 2 Cor. i. 3 ; vii. 6 ; John xvi. 33,
SABBATH OBSERVANCE.
The Sabbath must be remembered..
Ex. XX. 8.
The Sabbath must be hallowed. Ex-
XX. 8.
The Sabbath must be secure from or-
dinary secular occupation — day of rest»
Ex. XX. 9.
The Sabbath must be employed in di-
vine worship, private and public. Isa.
Ixvi. 23 ; Acts XX. 7.
The Sabbath must be hailed as honor-
able of the Lord, and held in delight as-
a day of gladness. Isa. Iviii. 13 ; Psa.
cxviii. 24 ; Acts xx. 7 : i Cor x. 16.
The Sabbath must not be dishonoredi
by frivolous recreation or pleasure. Isa..
Iviii, 13.
The Sabbath must not be disturbed by-
unseemly noise and tumult. Hab. ii. 20 ;,
Matt. xxiv. 20 ; Heb. iv. 9.
The Sabbath must not be outraged by-
gala spectacles, etc. Isa. Iviii. 13 ; P»..
Ixv. I, 2, 4, 7.
THE SABBATH.
It must not be profaned by traffic for
gain. Neh. xiii. 15-22 ; Isa. Iviii. 13 %.
/ohn ii. 13, 17.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
'35
It must not be polluted by any vice or
dissipation. Isa. Ivi. 2.
It may be used in acts of social inter-
course, imperative travel, visiting the
prisoner, sick or poor in religious instruc-
tion or charity. Matt. xii. 13 ; Luke
xiii. 10, 17 ; xxiv.13, 31.
It may be employed in any work of
necessity or mercy. Mark ii. 23, 28.
VERY SHORT AND VERY LONG.
There are some things very short, and
some things very long. God in His
Word tells us of both of these, and bids
us look at them.
1. Life is very short. God speaks of
it as a shadow^ i Chron. xxix. 15 ; a
weaver's shuttle, Job vii. 6 ; a flower,
Psalm ciii. 15 ; a leaf, Isa. Ixiv. 6 ; a
handbreadth, Ps. xxxix. 5 ; a vapour,
J as. iv. 14 ; a sleep, Ps. ex. 5 ; a flood,
Psa, ex. 5. Is not life then short ? If it
be like these, it must be short indeed.
2. Time is very short. It is made up
ot many lives yet it is short. The time
is short, says Paul, i Cor. viii. 29 ; the
world passeth away, says John, i John
ii. 17. A few years will end all.
3. The sinner* s joy is short. It is but
(or a moment, says Job, xx. 5, The
fashion of this world passeth away, i
Cor. vii. 31. It fades away, and leaves
nothing behind it but grief,
4. Jhe saiftt's sorrow is short. It is
but for a moment, 2 Cor. iv. 17. It may
be heavy and hard to bear, but it is soon
over, and it leaves no shadow behind.
These are some of the things that are
very short. But there are other things
that are long. They are forever and ever.
1. God Himself. He is from everlast-
ing to everlasting, Psalm xc. 2. His life
is throughout all eternity, for He is the
King eternal and immortal, i Tim. i. 17.
How well for us to have this God for our
God.
2. God^s Love. The mercy of the
Lord, says David, is from everlasting to
everlasting, Psalm ciii. 17. The love of
God changes not. His grace never grows
old.
3. The life to come. It is everlasting,
life, John iii. 16 ; there is no 'death ia
this life, and no end. He who gets it»
gets it for ever and ever. What must it
be to have eternal life !
4. The saint'' z joy. At God's right
hand are pleasures foreviermore, Ps. xvi.
II ; the joy which the i\.n-omeQ of the
Lord obtain is everiasting joy, Isa.
XXXV. 10. How blessed lo have joy like
this — ^joy that shall never end.
5. The sinner's sorrow. I': is endless^
endless. The fire is everlasting, Isa.
xxxiii. 14. The torment is da ; and night,
forever and ever, Rev. xx. 10. The-
darkness is the blackne.'^t of darkness
forever, Jude 13. How sad to lie down
in such sorrow — to have these everlast-
ing burnings for our home I
PRIESTHOOD OF CHRIST. •
This is presented in type in the Old
Testament. It is unfolded in the New.
The first notice of Priesthood is that
of BLESSING. Gen. xii. 18-20 ; Hebrews
vii. 1-3 ; Luke xxiv. .50-51.
The second typical setting forth ot
Priesthood is that ot presentation.
Exodus xxviii. i, 4, 29 ; Heb. ix. 24.
The third representation oi the Priest-
hood of Christ may be called atone-
ment. Levit. xvi. 7-10, 14-16, 20-22 and
27; John i. 29; Hebrews ix. 26, and.
xiii. II, 12.
This is the order in which priesthood
is according to the mind of God, but.
the opposite order is that in which it
is apprehended by the mind of man.
Blessing is the thing set before ihe-
mind of God, but we know that sin
must Jirst be put away, and the persons-
to be blessed must then be presented ■
faultless, before blessing comes. Hence,
we must first be reconciled to God by
the cross-atonement, before we share.-
the blessings of the intercession of
Christ. His intercession only for be-
lievers. Hence Abraham receives bless-
ing through priesthood and is strength-
ened for tlie conflict before him. Gen~
^36
iSOTES FOR BIBLE READING^.
ixii. 21-24. Hence priesthood amongst
Israel (one types i Cor. x. 11) was given
:^fter they were redeemed by hlood.
Exodus xii. and Levit. viii. Hence in
^building Tabernacle the priesthood be-
>gins after the brazen altar which is the
type of the cross. Exodus xxvii. 1-8 ; i
xxviii. I. Hence the intercession for \
the fig tree, which is a standing type of '
the Israelites and not of the Gentiles,
of the believer and not the unbeliever -
Lukexiii. 6-9; Matt, vii.' 16-20.
Christ is now exercising the priest-
hood of intercession and of blessing,
based upon his atonement, for those j
-who trust him.
It is all powerful. Heb. vii. 25.
It avails fo>' sins. John i. 7-9 andii. i.
It gives aid in temptation. Hebrews ii.
36-18 ; Luke xxii. 31, 32: Mark xvi. 7.
It is full of sympathy. Heb. iv. 14-16.
It gives strength and joy. As Abraham
^as openly fed with bread and wine.
Sowe take these elements of the strength
and joy ministered to us by the Holy
Ghost through the word. John vi. 33,
^3-58. Rev. R. Cameron.
PRIESTHOOD OF BELIEVERS.
All through the letters to the Churches
Christians are spoken of as priests, but
no one person or class of persons more
so than another. The ofiicers and
teachers of the church are never called
priests. See i Peter ii, 5, 9 ; Rev. i. 6 ;
V. 10 ;; XX, 6.
It is evident that the believer can
never participate with Christ in making
atonement for sin, that was once made
and never to be repeated. Hebrews ix.
26 ; X. 10-14, 17-18.
In what respects are we priests.
Referring back to the typical teaching
it will be found that Aaron s sons were
priests by virtue oi their relationship to
him, so we by our relationship to Christ
— we possess his liie, (John i. 4, 12-14)
as they possess the life of Aaron.
The breastplate w'th special garments
and the Urim and Thummim were alone
•given to Aaron. Lev^t. ix. 7-14. He
^vas also anointed abundantly before
the sin ofiering was made, ver. 12 ; the
.-J >ns after, and in a limited way, ver. 30.
Both were consecrated by blood, ver.
23-24 They were not to enter upon
their priestly work till the eighth or
resurrection day — 33-35 ; ix. i. So Christ
after His resurrection, and we also after
risen from the dead. Eph. li. 5, 6 ; Col.
iii. I.
I. In offering praise. Hebrews xiiL
15 ;. Hos. XIV, 2.
2 In doing good and giving. Heb.
xiii. 16 ; Phil, ivo 16, Hence giving is
an act of worship, i Cor. xvi, 1-2.
3. In discerning between the clean
and the unclean x. lo-ii ; Ezek. xxii.
26. See New Testament Exhortations
to believers. Heb. \ • 14 ; Rom. xii. 9. .
4. In pronouncing clean. Levit. xiii.
6, 13. So John XX, 23. They pronounce
clean, forgiven, all the sinners who tie-
lieve, and unclean, (their sins retained)
all who do not believe. Acts x 43;
xiii. 38-39.
5. In blessing. Levit. ix. 22-23 ; Num.
vi. 22-26. So we. Matt. v. 44 ; Rom.
xii. 14 ; I Cor. iv. 12. This we do in
preaching gospel. Rom. xv. 29 ; Rom.
i. 1 1 . We should always seek to be a
blessing to all whom we meet.
6. Intercession, It is our privilege.
Examples in days of Christ. John iv.
46-53 ; Matt. xvi. 21-28; Mark ii, 4-12.
Amongst apostles. Acts xii. 3-7 ; Ro*m,
1,9-; I Thess. iii. 10 ; James v. 14-16.
So we may pray for saved and unsaved
friends. Rev. R. Cameron.
FALLING LEAVES.
Where there is little faith th^re is
little joy, Luke xxiv, 25,
The grand test of discipleship is not
knowledge, bin love, i John iv, 7,
The believer must not only say
" Lord teach me," but " Lord lead me,"
Ps, XXV, /j, 5,
^V^en we reign over sin, what liberty !
— \v ien sin reigns over us. what bond-
age ? Rom, vi, 14,
Never trust to grace received, but to
the mexhaustible fount.-in whence you
received it, 2 Cor. xii. 9,
The law discovers our ruin, but can-
not provide the remeay. Jesus alone
can do that. Rom. viii. 3.
Those who are most holy are most
lovely ; for the beauty of the Lord is
His holiness. Psalm xcvi. 9.
There is joy with peace in believing,
but nothing but perplexity in unbelief.
\ Acts viii. 37, 39.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
2X
V
xsalknfoiis.
THE FIVE PRECIOUS THINGS
OF PETER;
Christ. — I Peter ii. 4, 7. His blood —
I Peter i. 19. The promises, — 2 Peter
i. 4. Faith. — 2 Peter i. i. The trial of
faith. — I Peter i. 7.
Walk
Walk
Walk
Eph. iv
Walk
Walk
Walk
Walk
SEVEN WALKS.
in obedience. Eph. ii. 2.
in good works, Eph. ii. 10.
worthy of the vocation, ect.
. I.
not as other Gentiles. Eph. iv. 7.
in love. Eph. v. 5.
as children of light. Eph. v. 8.
circumspectly. Eph. v. 15.
SEVEN TOGETHERS.
Quickened us together. Eph. ii, 5.
Raised us up together. Eph. li. 6.
Sit together. Eph. ii. 6.
Workers together with Him. 2 Cor.
trj. 1 ; I Cor. iii. 9.
Glorified together. Rom. iii. 17.
Work together for good. Rom.iii.28.
Planted together. Rom. vi. 5.
SEVEN ONES.
One body, one spirit, one hope. Eph.
iv. 4, 5, 6.
One Lord, one faith, one baptism.
Eph. iv. 4, 5, 6.
One God and Father of all. Eph.iv.
4. 5. 6.
SEVEN STEPS OF THE WICKED.
Psalm XXX vi. 1-5.
SEVEN STEPS.
Phiiippians ii. 6, 7, 8.
SEVKN THINGS THE LORD
HATES.
Proverbs vi. 16-19.
SEVEN THINGS IN COLOSSIANS^
II.
Received Christ, ver, 6.
■ Walk in Christ, ver. 6.
Rooted in Christ, ver. 7.
Built up in Christ, ver. 7.
Complete in Christ, ver. 10.
Buried with Christ, ver. 12.
Risen with Christ, ver. 12.
SEVEN "MUSTS" OF THEGOSPEL.
1. What must I do to be saved ? Acts
xvi. 30.
2. Ye must be born again. John iii. 7.,
3. As Moses lifted up the serpent in.
the wilderness, even so must the Son ol
Man be lifted up. John iii. 14.
4. Neither is their salvation in any
other, for there is none other name under
heaven, given among men whereby we-
musthe saved. Acts iv. I2.
5. Then all the congregation answered
and said with a loud voice, as Thou hast,
said so must we do. Ezra x. 12.
5. And Jesus said unto him, Zacchaeus, ,
make haste and come down, for to-day
I must abide at thy house. Luke xix. 5.
7. For we must all appear before the
judgment seat of Christ, that every one
may receive the things done in his body
— according to that he hath done,,
whether it be good or bad. 2 Cor v. 10.
S.R.B.
SEVEN THINGS ABOUT PEACE.
It is made. Col. i. 20.
It is preached. Acts x. 36.
It is given. John xiv. 27.
It is possessed. Rom. v. i.
It should fill the heart. Rora. xv. 13..
it should keep the heart. PaiJ.iv.G,/..
It should rule the hearr. Col. iii. it;.
335
NOTES 1<0R BIBLE READINGS.
SEVEN THINGS THAT FAIL.
Money fails. Genesis xlvii. 15,
Kinsfolk fail. Job xix. 14.
Strength fails. Psalm xxxi. 10.
Refuge fails. Fsalm cxlii. 4.
Eyes fail. Psalm Ixix. 3.
Desire fails. Ecc. xii. 5.
Flesh and heart will fail. Psalm
Ixxiii. 26.
SEVEN ALLUSIONS TO ONE
THING.
Death. Ecc. iii. 19.
Salvation. Mark x. 21.
Assurance. John ix. 25.
•Communion. Psalm xxvii. 4.
-Devotedness. Luke x. 42.
Progress. Phil. iii. 13, 14.
Coming of the Lord. 2 Peter iii. 8.
'SEVEN INDISPENSABLE THINGS.
1. Without shedding of blood is no
remission. Heb. ix. 22.
2. Without faith it is impossible to
please God. Heb. xi. 6.
3. Without holiness no mail shall see
the Lord. Heb. xii. 14.
4. Without xvorks faith is dead. James
ii. 26.
5. Without love I am nothing, i Cor.
xiii. I, 3.
6. Without chastisement ye are not
sons. Heb. xii. 8.
7. Without Me [Jesus] ye can do
nothing. John xv. 5.
SEVEN THINGS GOD DID FOR
NOAH.
Warned him. Gen. vi. 13.
Brought him into the ark. Gen. vii. i.
Shut him in. Gen. vii. 16.
Remembered him. Gen. viii. i.
Brought him out. Gen. viii. 15.
Accepted his sacrifice. Gen. viii. 21.
Blessed him. Covenant. — Gen. ix. i.
SEVEN THINGS TO HOLD FAST.
1. That which is good, i Thess v. i.
2. The faithful word. Titus i. 9.
3. The form of sound words. 2 Tim.
•i. 13- . "
4. The confidence and rejoicing of the
•laope. Heb. iii. 6.
5. The profession of our faith. Heb.
X. 23.
6. That we have, that no man take our
crown. Rev. iii. 11.
7. The unfaithful, hold fast and repent.
Rev. iii. 3.
SEVEN THEREFORES OF
ROMANS.
1. Therefore man is without excuse.
Rom. ii. I.
2. Therefore not justified by work of
law. Rom. iii. 20.
3. Therefore it is of faith. Rom.iv.i6
4. Therefore being justified, we have
peace. .Rom. v. i.
5. Therefore there is no condemnation
Rom. viii. i.
6. Therefore behold the goodness and
severity of God. Rom. xi. 22.
7. Therefore present your bodies a
"living sacrifice. Rom. xii. i.
SEVEN ASPECTS OF WORSHIP.
The basis, the cross. Heb. x. 19.
The object, the Father ; the source,
the Spirit ; the channel, Christ. Eph
ii. 18.
The place, the vail. Heb. x. 20.
The subjects, believers. John iv. 24.
The theme, praise. Heb. xii. 15.
The Gospel, good news. — The glorious
Gospel of the blessed God. — i Tim.i.ii.
The Gospel of Christ. — Rom. i. 16. The
Gospel of His Son. — Rom. i. 9. The
Gospel of the grace of God. — Acts xx. 24.
My Gospel.^Rom. xvi. 25. The Gospel
of the Kingdom. — Matt. iv. 25. The
everlasting Gospel. — Rev. xiv. 6,
. SEVEN ABLES.
1. Able to do exceeding abundantly
above all that we ask or think. — Ephes.
iii. 20.
2. Able to save them to the uttermost
that come unto God by him. — Heb.
vii. 25.
3. Able to raise him up even from the
dead. — xi. 19.
4. Able to make all grace abound to-
ward you. — 2 Cor. ix. 8.
5. Able to succour them that are
tempted. — Heb. ii. 18.
6. Able to keep you from falling. — .
Jude 24.
7. Able even to subdue all things
unto himself. — Phil. iii. 21,
SEVEN DELIVERS.
1. Deliver me from all my transgres-
sions.— Psa. xxxix. 8.
2. Deliver me from the hand of mine
enemies. — Psa. xxxi. 15.
3. Deliver me irom bloodguiltiness
O God —Psa. .\li. 14.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
239
4. Deliver me from deceitful and un-
just man. — Psa. xli. I.
5. Deliver me from evil work. — 2 Tim.
uv. 18.
6. Deliver me from the oppression of
man. — Psa. cxix, 134.
7. Deliver me from the body of this
death. — Rom. vii. 24.
THE SEVEN RESTS OF SCRIP-
TURE.
Rest. Sabbath.
Creation. Gen. ii. 2, 3. S-eventh day.
Canaan. Josh. xxi. 44. A-fter subduing
the land.
Sinners. Matt. ki. 28. B-elieving.
In service. Mat. xi. 29. B-eing yoked
with Christ.
Recompense. 2 ' Thess.
i. 6, 7. A-t the coming
of Christ.
Millennial. Isa. xiv. 7. T-housand
years.
-Eternal. Rev. xxi. 3, 4. H-ereafter for
ever.
A SEVENFOLD VIEW OF GOD.
Rom. i. 1-18.
1. Gospel of God. Rom. i. i.
2. Son of God. Rom. i. 4.
3. Beloved of God. Rom. i. 7.
4. Peace of God. Rom. i. 7.
5. Power of God. Rom. i. 16.
6. Righteousness of God. Rom. i. 17.
7. Wrath of God. Rom. i. 18.
Thus we have a message of love —
"The Gospel of God," telling us of the
-death and resurrection of " The Son of
•God," through which we are seen to be
"The Beloved of God," and the basis
upon which that love rests, "The Peace
of God," setting forth the only way to
elevate man, "The Power of God ; " and
in which also "The righteousness of
God" is seen; but, if rejected, nothing
but the " Wrath of God " remains.
H. R. F.
TWICE SEVENFOLD DESCRIP-
TION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.
1. Spirit of Christ. Rom. viii. 9 ;
J. Peter i. 11.
2. Spirit of Promise. Eph. i. 13.
,3. Spirit of Truth. John xiv. 17 ;
xv. 26; xvi. 13; I John iv. 6.
4. Spirit of Adoption. Rom. viii. 15.
5, Spirit of Wisdom. Ex. xxviii. 3;
VDeut. xxxiv* 9 ; Isaiah xL 2 ; Eph. i. 10^
6. Spirit of Counsel. Isaiah xi. 2.
7. Spirit of Knowledge. Isaiah xi. 2.
8. Spirit of Understanding. Isaiah
xi. 2.
9. Spirit of Prophecy. Rev. xix. 10;
Joel ii. 28.
10. Spirit of Power. 2 Tim. i. 7.
11. Spirit of Love. 2 Tim. i. 7,
12. Spirit of Sound Mind. 2 Tim. i. 7.
13. Spirit of Grace. Zech. xii. 10 ;
Heb. X. 29.
14. Spirit of Glory, i Peter iv. 14,
"Know ye not that your body is the
temple of the Holy Ghost ? " i Cor. vi. 19.
SEVEN THINGS OPENED.
The eyes. Isaiah xlii. 7. The ears.
Isaiah 1. 5. The heart. Acts xvi. 14.
The mouth. Psalm Ii. 15. The Scrip-
tures. Luke xxiv. 32. The understand-
ing. Luke xxiv. 45. The door for
service, i Cor. xvi. 9.
SEVEN APOSTOLIC COMMAND-
MENTS.
1. As ye have therefore received
Christ Jesus the Lord, walk ye in Him. .
Rooted and built up in Him. Col. ii. 6, 7.
2. Walk in the Spirit and ye shall not
fulfil the lusts of the flesh. Gal. v. 16,
3. Walk in love, as Christ also hath
loved us, and hath given Himself for
us, an ofFeririg and a sacrifice to God
for a sweet smelling savour. Eph. v. 2.
4. And this is love, that we walk after
His commandments. 2 John 6. For
this is the love of God, that we keep
His commandments, i John v. 3.
5. See then that ye walk circumspect-
ly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming
the time because the days are evil.
Ephes. V. 15, 16.
6. Now are ye light in the Lord :
walk as children of light ; proving Avhat
is acceptable unto the Lord. Ephes.
V. 6, 10.
7. Walk worthy of the Lord unto all
pleasing, being fruitful in every good
work, and increasing in the knowledge
of God. Col. i. 10 ; Eph. iv. 1,2.
He that saith he abideth in him, ought
himself also so to walk, even as He
walked, i John i» 6.
240
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
SEVENFOLD VIRTUE OF THE
BLOOD.
r. Redemption. In whom we have
redemption through His blood even
the forgiveness of sins. Col. i. 14.
2. Justification. Much more then,
being now justified by His blood, we
shall be saved from wrath through
Him. Rom. v. 9.
3. Sanctification, Jesus also, that
He might sanctify the people with His
own blood, suffered without the camp.
Heb. xiii. 12.
4. Peace. Having made peace through
the blood of His cross. Col. i. 20.
5. Made nigh. But now in Christ
Jesus ye who sometimes were far off
are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
Eph. ii. 13.
6. Kept nigh. Having therefore, breth-
ren, boldness to enter into the holiest
by the blood of Jesus. Heb. x.'ig.
7. Victorious. And they overcame
him by the blood of the Lamb. Rev.
xii. II. And have washed their robes
and made them white in the blood of.
the Lamb. Rev. vii. 14.
Unto Him that loved us, and washed
us from our sins in His own blood, and
hath made ns kings and priests unto
God and His Father ; to Him be glory
and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Rev. i. 5, 6.
SEVEN NOWS.
1. The now of Calvary : now once in
the end of the world (age) hath Christ
appeared to put away sin by the sacri-
fice of Himself. Heb. ix. 26,
2. The now of Resurrection : now is
•Christ risen from the dead, and become
the first fruits ot them that slept, i
Cor, XV. 20.
3. The now of Salvation : now is the
accepted time ; behold, now is the day
of salvation. 2 Cor. vi. 2.
4. The now of No Condemnation :
now there is therefore no condemnation
to them that are in Christ Jesus. Rom.
viii. 1.
5. The now of NearncNs . now ii»
Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far
oft are made nigh by the blood of
Christ. Eph. ii. 13.
6. The now of Sonship : now are we-
the sons of God. i John iii. 2.
7. The now of Intercession ; now to
appear in the presence of God for us.
Heb. ix. 24.
Now unto Him that is able to keep
you from falling, and to present 5'-ou
faultless before the presence of His
glory with exceeding joy. To the only
wise God our Saviour be glory and
majesty, dominion and power, both now
and ever. Amen. Jude 24, 25.
SEVEN PRECIOUS THINGS.
1. None can by any means redeem
his brother nor give to God a ransom,
for him ; for the redemption of their
soul is precious. Psalm xlix. 7, 8.
2. Forasmuch as ye know that ye
were not redeemed with corruptible
things, as silver and gold . . but with the-
precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb-
without blemish and without spot.
I Peter i. 18, 19.
3. Precious faith with us through the
righteousness of God and of our Saviour
Jesus Christ. 2 Peter i. i.
4. Whereby are given unto us exceed-
ing great and precious promises. 2
Peter i. 4.
5 . H o w precious also are Thy thoughts;
unto me, O God ! how great is the sum
of them ! Psalm cxxxix. 17.
6. Behold, I lay in Zion for a founda-
tion, a stone, a tried stone, a precious-
corner stone, a sure foundation. Isaiah
xxviii. 16.
7. Precious in the sight of the Lord
is the death of His saints. Ps. cxvi. 15.
Unto you therefore which believe He-
I is precious. Amen, i Peter ii. 7.
SF:VEN THINGS WORTH HAV-
ING.
1 . The grace of God that bringeth sal-
vation. Tit. ii. II.
2. The blessedness of the man whose
transgression is forgiven, whose sin is.
covered. Psa. xxxii. i.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
241
3. Peace with God. through our Lord
Jesus Christ. Rom. v. i.
4. A great High Priest that is passed
into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God.
Heb. iv. 14.
5. The spirit of adoption, whereby we
cry, Abba, Father. Rom. viii. 15.
6. An inheritance incorruptible and
undefiled, that fadeth not away, reserved
in heaven for you. i Pet. i. 4.
7. A crown of righteousness, which the
Lord the righteous Judge shall give me
at that day. 2 Tim. iv. 8.
He that hath the Son hath life, i Jno.
v. 12.
SEVEN MARKS OF REGENERA-
TION.
1 . Every one that doeth righteousness
is born of God. 1 John li. 29.
2. Whosoever is born of God doth not
commit sin. i John iii. 9.
3. Every one that loveth is bom of
God and knoweth God. i John iv. 7.
4. Whosoever believeth that Je.sus is
the Christ is born of God. i John v. i.
5. Whosoever is born of God over-
cometh the world, i John v. 4.
6. He that is begotten of God keepeth
himself, and that Wicked One toucheth
him not. i John v. 18.
7. Blessed be the God and Father of
our Lord Jesus Christ, which according
to His abundant mercy hath begotten us
again unto a lively hope by the resurrec-
tion of Jesus Christ from the dead, i
Pet. i. 3.
Jesus said unto him : Verily, verily, I
say unto thee, except a man be born
again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John iii. 3. Amen.
SEVEN THINGS WORTH KNOW-
ING.
1. We know that the Son of God is
come, and hath given us an understand-
ing that we may know Him that is true.
I John V. 20.
2. We hiow that He was manifested
to take away our sins, i John iii. 5.
3. We know that we have passed from
death unto lite, because we love the
'brethren, i John iii. 14.
16
4. We know and believe the love that
God hath in us. i John iv. 16.
5. We know that He abideth in us by
the Spirit which He hath given us. i
John iii. 24.
7. We kno^v that all things work to-
gether for good to them that love God.
Rom. viii, 28.
7. We know that if out earthly house
of this tabernacle were dissolved we have
a building of God — an house not made
with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2
Cor. V. I.
And hereby we do know that we
know Him, if we keep His command-
ments. I John ii. 3.
SEVEN BEATITUDES FROM THE
PSALMS.
1. Blessed is he whose transgression is
forgiven, whose sin is covered. Ps. xxiii. i.
2. Blessed is the man that walketh
not in the counsel of the ungodly. Psa.
i. I.
3. Blessed is that man that maketh the
Lord his trust. Psa. xl. 4.
4. Blessed is the man that feareth the
Lord, that delighteth greatly in His com-
mandments. Psa. cxii. 1.
5. Blessed is the man whose strength
is in Thee. Psa. Ixxxiv. 5.
6. Blessed is the man whom Thou
chastenest, O Lord, and teachest him out
of Thy law. Ps. xciv. 12.
7. Blessed are they that dwell in Thy
house. Psa. Ixxxiv. 4. In the house of
the Lord for ever. Psa. xxiii. 6.
Blessed are they which are called unto
the marriage supper of the Lamb. Rev..
xix. 9. Amen.
SEVEN BLESSEDS OF REVELA-
TION.
He that readeth, and they that hear^
chap. i. 3. The dead which die in the
Lord, chap, xiv. i. He that watcheth
and keepeth his garments, chap. xvi. 15..
They which are called to the marriage
supper, chap. xix. 9. He that hath part
in the* first resurrection, chap. xx. 6. He
that keepeth the sayings, chap. xxii. 7,
They that do His commandments, chap.
xxii. 14.
242
NOTES FOR BIBLE KKADINGS.
A SEVENFOLD ASPECT OF THE
BELIEVER'S RESPONSIBILITY.
Salt of the earth. Matt. v. 13.
Light of the world. Matt. v. 14.
A city set on a hill. Matt. v. 14.
Epistles of Christ. 2 Cor. iii. 3.
Fruit-bearing branches. John xv. 8.
Witnesses. Isa. xliii. 10.
Servants. John xiii. 16.
THE SEVEN MYSTERIES OF THE
NEW TESTAMENT.
1. The mystery of the Kingdom of
Heaven. See Matt. xiii. 11.
2. The blindness in parfthat happened
to Israel. See Rom. xi. 25.
3. The mystery of those who are to be
changed, and of those who are to be
raised at the return of our Lord Jesus.
See I Cor. xv. 5^-> S^-
4. The mystery concerning Christ and
the Church. Eph. v. 32. See also Rom.
xvi. 25, 26 ; Eph. iii. 3-10 ; Col. i. 25-
27.
5. The mystery of God, and of the
Father, and of Christ. Col. ii. 2.
6. The mystery of iniquity (Lawless-
ness.) 2 Thes. ii. 7.
7. The mystery of God. Rev. x. 7.
W. H. P. W.
SEVEN COMMANDS AS TO OUR
SPEECH.
Let no corrupt communication proceed
out of your mouth. Eph. iv. 29.
Laying aside .... all evil speaking. 1
Pet. ii. I.
The word I speak to thee, that thou
shalt speak. Num. xxii. 35.
Talk ye of all His wondrous works,
t's. cv. 2.
Tell how great things the Lord
hath done for thee. Mark v. 19.
Speak my word faithfully. Jer. xxiii.
28.
Speak every man truth with his neigh-
bour. Eph, iv. 25.
THE BELIEVER'S RESPONSE.
Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth;
keep the door of my lips. Psa. cxli. 3.
Let the words of my mouth be ac-
ceptable in Thy sight, O Lord. Ps. xix.
M.
SEVEN DAILY THINGS.
Daily bread. Matt. vi. 2. Daily cross.
Luke ix. 23, Daily increase in the
church. Acts xvi. 5. Daily searching of
scripture. Acts xvii. 2. Daily dying, i
Cor. XV. 31. Daily exhorting. Heb. xiii
13. Daily watching. Pro. viii. 34.
SEVEN CAUTIONS.
Beware lest ye forget God. Deut. vi.
12. Beware lest any man spoil you.
Col. ii. 8, Beware of evil workers. Phil.
iii. 2. Beware of being led away. 2
Pet. iii. 1 7. Beware of hypocrisy. Luke
xii. I. Beware lest that come on you.
Acts xiii. 40. Beware of covetousness.
Luke xii. 15.
THE MULTIPLICATION TABLE
OF FORGIVENESS.
Peter — 7 times i )
> Charity never faileth
Christ — 7 times 70 ) Matt, xviii. 21, 22.
SEVEN QUESTIONS OF OUR
LORD.
" Answer Ye,"
1. Friend wherefore art thou come?
Matt, xxvi, 50.
2. What seek ye ? John i, 38.
3. What wilt thou that I shall do unto
thee ? Mark x. 51.
4. Believe ye that I am able to do
this ? Matt. ix. 28.
5. Wilt thou be made whole ? Jno.v.6.
6. Dost thou believe on the Son 01
God ? John ix. 35.
7. Who touched me? Luke viii. 45.
SEVEN BEHOLDS.
1. Behold I was shapen in iniquity,
Psa. Ii. 5.
2. Behold I bring you good tidings of
great joy, Luke ii. 10.
3. Behold the Lamb of God, Jno.i.29.
4. Behold now is the accepted time, 2
Cor, vi. 2.
5. Behold now is the day of salvation,
2 Cor. vi. 2.
6. Behold, I stand at the door and
knock, Rev. iii. 19.
7. Behold he prayeth, Actsix. 11.
NOTES FOR BiBLb READINGS.
243
SEVEN THOUGHTS ABOUT
LOOKING TO JESUS.
As a sinner my remedy is to look at
Him, John i. 36.
As a dead one look and live, Num.
xsi. ; John iii. 13, 14.
As a saint I grow by looking at Him,
2 C\rr. iii. 18. . .
Do I want to learn dispensational
truth, Eph. i. 17 to end.
Gazing on Him I learn my oneness
with Him, Heb. ii. 9-1 1.
I am nerved for the race, Heb. xii. 2,
As to the future a sight of Him will
change me bodily into His image, i
John iii. 2. C. S. B.
THE SEVEN CRIES OF THE
REDEEMER ON THE CROSS.
1. Father forgive them they know not
what they do, Luke xxiii. 34.
2. To-day shalt thou be with me in
paradise, Luke xxiii, 43.
3. My God, my God, why hast thou
forsaken me. Matt, xxvii. 46.
4. Woman behold thy Son, to his
mother ; behold thy mother, to the
disciple, John xix. 26.
5. I thirst, John xix. 28,
6. It is finislied, John xix. 30.
7. Father into Thy hand I commend
my Spirit, Luke xxiii. 46.
SEVEN ETERNALS IN HEBREWS.
1. Salvation, v. 9.
2. Judgment, vi. 2.
3. Redemption, ix. 12.
4. Spirit, ix. 14.
5. Inheritance, ix. 15.
6. Covenant, xiii. 20.
7. Perfection, vii. 28.
J. H. E,
SEVEN HENCEFORTHS.
1. I call you not servants. . . . John
XV. 5.
2. We should not serve sin. Rom.vi.6.
3. Not to live unto themselves. 2 Cor.
V. 15.
4. Know we no man after the flesh.
2 Cor. v. 16.
5. Be no more children. Eph. iv. 14.
6. Hope in the Loi-d from henceforth.
Psalm cxxxi. 3.
7. There is laid up for me a crown
2 Tim. iv. 8.
SEVENFOLD TRIALS OF OUR
LORD AT THE END OF HIS
EARTHLY LIFE.
1. Temptation by Satan. Matt. xxvi.
39-44-
2. Betrayal by Judas. Matt. xxvi. 49.
3. Forsaken by His disciples. Matt,
xxvi. 56.
4. Denial of Peter. Matt. xxvi. 70.
5. Chief priests against Him. Matt,
xxvii. I.
6. Pilate condemns Him against his
conscience. Matt, xxvii. 19-26.
7. Father's face hidden. Matt.xxvii.46.
We have not an high priest that can-
not be touched with a feeling of our
infirmities, but was in all points tempted
like as we are. Perfect through suffering.
SEVEN FELLOWSHIPS.
I. Fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ.
I Cor. i.'9.
r2. Fellowship of the mystery. Eph
iii. 9.
3. Fellowship of the Spirit. 2 Cor,
xiii. 14 ; Phil. ii. i.
4. Fellowship of His sufferings. Phil.
iii. 10.
5. Fellowship with the Father, ijohn
i. 3. 6.
6. Fellowship one with another, i
John i. 7 : Acts ii. 42 ; Phil. i. 5.
7. Fellowship with the blood, i Cor
X. 16.
SEVEN CUPS.
1. Trembling. Isaiah I. ly, 22,
2. Salvation. Psalm cxvi. 13
3. Consolation. Jer. xvi.7.
4. Suffering. Matt.xx.22,
5. Blessing. i Cor. x. 16.
6. The Lord. Psalm xvi. 5.
7. Wrath. Rev. xvi. 9.
I took the cup at the Lord's hand
Jer. XXV. 9. ■
SEVEN TRUMPETS,
1. Law. Exodus xix. 16.
2. Gathering. Num. x. 2.
3. Journeying. Num. x. 5.
4. Victory. Joshua vi. 4; Num. x. 9
Judges vii. 18.
5. Joy. Psalm xcviii. 6; Num. x. 10
2 Ch^on. xxix. 2.
6. Warning. Eze. xxxiii. 3.
7. Christ's coming, i Cor. xv. 52 ; i
Thess. iv. 16.
244
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
SEVEN " ONE THINGS."
Needed. Luke x. 42.-
Lacking. Mark x. 21.
Desired. Psalm xxvii. 4.
Enjoyed. John ix. 25.
lieaiing fruit. Phil. iii. 13.
Longsuffering. 2 Peter iii. 8.
Faithfulness. Joshua xxiii, 14.
j Pisgah. Future inheritance. Deut
1 xiv, I.
I Olives. The coming. Zech. xiv. 4.
I Zion. The final kingdom. Isa. xxiv,
123.
SEVEN REFERENCES TO THE
LAMB IN REVELATION.
Wrath of the Lamb. vi. 16.
Blood of the Lamb. vii. 14.
Book of life of the Lamb. xiii. 8.
Song of the Lamb., xv. 3,
Marriage of the Lamb. xix. 7.
Marriage supper of the Lamb. xix. 9.
Throne of the Lamb. xxii. i.
SEVEN ROCKS.
1. Salvation, Psa. Ixxxix. 26.
2. Stability. Matt. xvi. 18.
3. Security. Ps. xc. 22.
4. Shelter. Ps. Ixxi. 31.
5. Satisfaction, i Cor. x. 4.
6. Strength. Ps. xxxi. 2.
7. Shadow. Isa. xxxii. 2.
SEVEN CROWNS.
1. Crown of thorns. Matt, xxvii. 29.
2. Crown of life. Jas. i. 12 ; Rev. ii.
10.
3. Crown of righteousness. 2 Tim.
iv. 8.
4. Crovi-'n of rejoicing, i Thes. ii. 19.
5. Crown incorruptible. I Cor. ix.25.
6. Crown of glory, i Pet. v. 4.
7. Crown of gold. Rev. iv. 4.
SEVEN HOPES.
1. Without Christ, having no hope.
Eph. ii. 12..
2. Christ in you the hope of glory.
Col. i. 27.
3. Jesus Christ who is our hope, i
Tim. i. I.
4. Which hope we have, etc. Heb.
vi. 19.
5. The hope of eternal life. Tit. iii.7«
6. Blessed hope. Jer. xvii. 7.
7. Rejoicing in hope. Rom. xii.
SEVEN MOUNTS.
Sinai. The law. Deut. xxxiii. 2.
Ebal. The curse of the law.- Deut.
xxvii. 13.
Calvary, The curse removed. Luke
xxii. 33.
Gerizim. Present blessing. Deut.
xxvii. 12.
, SEVEN PROMISES FOR SEVEN
STATES OF NEED.
1. Are you tired. Isa. xl. 29, 31.
2. Are you hungry. Isa. kl. 11.
3. Are you thirsty. Isa. xli. 18 ; xliv.
3 ; Iviii. II.
4. Are you fearful. Isa. xli. 10, 13.
5. Are you troubled. Isa. xxvi. 3, 4.
6. Are you tempted. Isa. Hx. 19.
7. Are you fighting. Isa. liv. 17.
In whatsoever state thou art. Isa. xlix.
16.
I.
66.
2.
xvii.
3-
4.
Col.
5-
6.
22.
SEVEN ASSURANCES.
No ass6rance of life. Deut, xxviii
Full assurance unto all men. Acts
31-
Much assurance, i Thes. i. 5.
Full assurance of understanding,
ii. 2,
Full assurance of hope. Heb. vi.ii.
Full assurance of faith, Heb. X.
7. Assurance for ever. Isa. xxxii. 17.
A SEVENFOLD CONSECRATION.
1. My eyes are to be upon Jesus. Acts
xii. 2.
2. My feet to be in the race course.
Acts xii. I.
3. My hands are to minister to others.
Eph. iv. 28.
4. My mind to be set on things above.
Col. iii. 2 (margin.)
5. My heart to be established in grace.
Heb. xiii. 9.
6. My body to be a living sacrifice
Rom. xvii. i. ,
7. Myself — spirit, soul and body-
blameless at the coming of Jesus Christ
I Thes. V. 23.
SEVEN REWARDS TO OVER-
COMERS.
1. To him that overcometk will I give
to eat of the tree of life, which is in the
midst of the paradise of God. Rev. ii.7.
2. He that overcometk shall not be
hurt of the second death. Rev. ii. 11,
3. To him that overcometk will I give
j to eat of the hidden manna, and will
' give him a white stone, and in the stone
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
245
H Dew name written, which no man
knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
Rev. ii. 17.
4 He that overcometh, and keepeth my
works unto the end, to him will I give
power over the nations :... .even as I
received of my Father. And I will give
him the morning star. Rev. ii. 26-28.
5. He that overcometh, the same shall
be clothed in white raiment ; and I will
not blot out his name out of the book of
life, but I will confess his name before
my Father, and before His angels.
Rev. iii. 5.
6. Him that overcometh will I make a
pillar in the temple of my God, and he
shall go no more out : and I will write
upon him the name of my God, and the
name of the city of my God, which is
New Jerusalem, which cometh down out
of heaven from my God: and I will
write upon him my new name. Rev.
iii. 12.
7. To him \h2X overcometh will I grant
to sit with Me in my throne, even as I
also overcame, and am set down with
my Father in His throne. Rev. iii. 21.
Reader, will you be an overcomer,
and make these glorious rewards your
own?
SEVEN TOGETHERS.
Quickened us together. Eph. ii. 5, 6.
Raised us up together. Eph. ii. 5, 6.
Sit together. Eph. ii. 5, 6.
Workers together with him. 2 Cor.vi.i.
Glorified together. Rom. viii. 17, 28.
"Work together for good.Rom.viii. 17,28.
Planted together. Rom. vi. 5,
SEVEN WITHOUTS.
1. Without shedding of blood is no
remission. Heb. ix. 22 ; John vi. 53-56;
Acts XX. 28 ; Rom, iii. 24-26 ; Eph. ii.
13 ; Rev. xii. 11.
2. Without faith it is impossible to
please Him. — Heb, xi. 6 ; Rom. xiv. 23.
Hence the prominence that is given to
faith in the New Testament, where it is
mentioned more than five hundred times.
— John i. 12 ; iii. 14-18 : Acts x. 43 ;
Rom. iv. 5 ; i Cor. i, 21 ; 2 Cor. i. 24 ;
Eph. ii. 8 ; Rev. ii. 13.
3. Follow peace with all men, and
holiness, without which no man shall
see the Lord. — Heb. xii. 14. It is not
said to us, become holy, but be holy, for
we are already partakers of Christ's
hohness. — Gal. v. 24 ; Eph. v. i ; Phil,
iii. 3 ; Col. i. 21, 22 ; i Peter i. 15, 16.
4. As the body without the spirit is
dead, so faith without works is dead
also. James ii. 26; Matt. v. 16; John
vi. 29 ; Rom. xi. 6 ; Rev. xiv. 13.
5. That He would grant unto us, that
we, being delivered out of the hand of
our enemies, might serve Him without
fear, in holiness and righteousness before
Him, all the days of our life. Luke i.
74, 75 ; John XV. 11 ; xvi. 24; Rom. v.
5 ; Gal. V. 6; 2 Tim. i. 7; i John iv. 17.
6. If ye be without chastisement,
whereof all are partakers, then are ye
bastards, and not sons. Heb. xii. 8 ;
Phil. i. 29 ; Matt. v. 11, 12 ; Luke vi.22,
23 ; Acts v. 41 ; Rom. v, 2 ; i Peter iv.
12-14 ;
7. Without Me ye can do nothing.
John XV. 5.
SEVENFOLD POWER OF CHRIST.
1. His power in heaven. John i. 1-3;
John i. 10 ; i Cor. viii. 6 ; Eph. iii. 9 ;
Col. i, 16; Heb. i. 2; Isaiah ix. 6 ; Psa.
xxxiii. 6 ; Psalm cii. 25 ; John v. 17, 18;
x. 30 ; Phil. ii. 6 ; Rev. i. 8 ; iii. 14.
2. His power on earth. Matt. ix. 6 ;
Matt. xi. 5 ; Matt. viii. 27 ; Luke vii. 50J
Mark viii. 19; John xi. 43, 44; Matt,
viii. 2,3; ix, 20-22 ; xvii. 18 ; Mark iii.
5 ; Luke vii. 11-15 ; viii. 23, 24.
3. His power in death. John xii. 24-
33 ; Lev. xvii. 11 ; Isaiah liii, 5; Matt,
xxvi. 28 ; Rom. v. lO ; i Cor. xi. 26 ;
Gal. iii. 13 ; Eph, i. 7 : Phil. ii. 8 ; Col.
i. 21, 22 ; Heb. ii. 9 ; i John i. 7; Rev.
V. 9.
4. His power in resurrection. Rom.
i. 4 ; Matt, xxviii. 18 ; Acts ii. 24 ; Rom.
iv. 25 ; vi. 6-9 ; viii. 34; Eph. *ii. 4-6 ;
Col. ii. 12; iii. 1-4 ; i Peter i. 3.
5. His power in exaltation. Eph. i.
20-23 ; John xiv.. 19 ; Acts v. 31 ; Rom. v.
246
NOTES FOR BiBLii READINGS.
10; I Cor. i. 24; Phil. ii. 6-11 ; i Peter
iii. 22 ; Rev. i. 18.
6. His power in intercession. Heb.
vii. 25 ; Exodus xxviii. 38 ; i John ii. i ;
John xiv; Heb. ii. 17, 18; iv. 15, 16; v.
I, 2; Psalm ciii. 14; Hosea xi. 8; John
xiii. I ; Eph. v. 25-27.
7. His power in His second coming.
Matt. xxiv. 30; I Thess. iv. 16-18 ; John
xiv. 3 ; Col. iii. 4 ; i Thess. i. 10 ; iii. 13;
2 Tim. iv. 8 ; Titus ii. 13 ; Heb. ix. 28;
^- 37 > James v. 8 ; i John ii. 28.
SEVEN NEW THINGS,
1. A new creature, 2 Cor. v. 17; Rom.
V. 11-21; John iii. 16; Eph. v. 30; Col.
iii. 9, 10 ; Gal. vi. 15 ; Eph. iv. 22-24 ;
John i. 12, 13; iii. 1-15 ; Rom. vii. 13-
25; viii. 6-9; Gal. iii. 26; v. 17; i
John V. I.
2. A new tongue, Mark xvi. 17; Psa.
V. 9 ; X. 7 ; 1. 19 ; Hi. 2 ; Ivii. 4 ; Ixxiii.
9 ; cxl, 3 ; Rom. iii. 13 ; James iii. 6 ;
Psa. xxxv. 28 ; xxxix. i ; Phil. ii. 11 ; i
Pet. iii. ID ; see Psa. Ii. 14 ; Ixxi. 24 ;
Mark vii. 35 ; Acts ii. 4 ; James i. 26.
3. A new song, Ps. xl. 2, ,3 ; Matt.
xxvi. 40; Heb. ii. 12; Rev. v. 9-12;
Psa. cxxxviii. 4, 5 ; 2 Chron. xx. 21, 22 ;
xxix. 27, 28 ; Num. xxi. 9, 17 ; Acts xvi,
25 ; Rom. XV. 9 ; Eph. v. 19 ; Col. iii.
16 ; James v. 13.
4. A new name, Rev. ii. 17 ; iii. 12 ;
xix. 12 ; I Cor. xii. 12 ; Matt, i, 21 ;
Luke xxiv. 47; John xiv. 13, 14, 26;
Acts iv. 12 ; V. 41 ; ix. 15 ; Phil. ii. 9,
10 ; James ii. 7.
5. A new covenant, Heb. viii. 8-13 ;
K. 15-17 ; Matt. xxvi. 28 ; Rom, xi. 27;
I Cor. xi. 25 ; 2 Cor. iii. 6 ; Gal. iii. 17 ;
Heb, vii. 22 ; ix. 15, 17 ; xii. 24; xiii. 20.
6. A new commandment, John xiii.
34; John XV. 12-17 ; xvii. 21-23; Acts
i. 44-47 ; Rom. xii. 10, 19 ; i Cor. xiii,
1-7 ; 2 Cor. xiii. 11 ; Gal. v. 13-15 ; Eph.
iv. 30-32 ; V. I, 2 ; Phil, ii, 1-3, 14, 15 ;
Col. iii. 12-15 ;. i Thess iv. 9 ; Heb. x.
24; James iii. 13-18; i Pet. iii. 8, 9; iv.
7, 8 ; I John ii. 8-1 1 ; iii. 10-16, 23;
iv. 7-12.
7. A new home, Rev. xxi. i ; John
liv. 3 ; Ps. xvi. 11 ; 2 Thess. ii. i ; i.
Thess. iv. 15-18 ; 2 Pet. iii. 11-14; Rev.
jxii. 20. J. H. B-
SEVEN TWO'S.
1. Two opinions, i Kings xviii. 21;
Gen. xlix. 4; James '. 6, 7; Josh, xxiv,
15 ; Ruth i. 15, 16 ; Matt. xii. 30 ; xvi.
24-27 ; Luke xiv. 26, 27 ; John vi. 67-69 ;
I John ii. 18, 19.
2. Two treasures. Matt. vi. 19, 20;
Psalm xlix. 6-9 ; Luke xviii. 24, 25 ;
Eph. ii. 6, 19 ; Phil. iii. 20, 21 ; i Tim.
vi. 6-9 ; Heb. xiii. 5, 6 ; James iv. 4 ;
1 John ii. 15.
3. Two masters. Matt. vi. 24 ; 2.
37-39 ; Luke ix. 59-62 ; Rom. xii. 12 ; i
Cor. vi. 19, 20 ; x. 31 ; Gal. i. 10 ; Phil,
i. 21 ; 2 Tim. iv. 10.
4. Two ways. Matt. vii. 13, 14; Luke
xii. 32; xiii. 23-27; John xvi. 33; Acts
xiv. 22 ; I Cor. i. 26-29 '• Phil. iii. 18 ;
2 Tim. iii. 12, 13 ; i John v. 19.
5. Two debtors. Luke vii. 41 ; Mark
v. 34; X. 52 ; Luke xix, 10 ; John iii. 16;
Acts X. 43; xiii. 39; I Cor. vi. 9-11;
I Tim. i. 15.
6. Two men. Luke xviii. 10 ; Rom.
iii. 22, 23 ; Rom. iii. 24, 26, 28 ; v. i, 9 ;
vi. 7, [margin]; Gal. ii. 16; iii. 11-13;
Titus iii, 5-7 ; i Peter i. 18, 19.
7. Two resurrections. Rev. xx. 5, 6 ;
Mark ix, 10 ; Luke xiv. 14 ; John v. 29 ;
I Cor. XV, 23 ; Phil. iii. 10, 11 ; i Thess.
iv. 16-18.
SEVEN THINGS THAT FAIL NOT
1. The Lord faileth not. Deut. xxxi.
6, 8 ; Josh. i. 5 ; Heb. xiii. 5 ; i Chron^
xxviii. 20 ; Ps, xxvii. 10 ; Isa. xlix. 15 ;
John X. 27, 28 ; xiii. i ; Acts xviii. 9, 10 ;
2 Tini. iv. 16, 17.
2. His word fails not. Josh, xxi. 45 ;
xxiii, 14 ; Prov. vi, 22 ; Ps. cxix, 89' ;
Isa. xl. 8 ; Jer. xxix. 10 ; Matt. xxiv. 35 ;
Luke iv. 32; 2 Tim. iii. 16; i Peter i.
25 ; I John ii. 14.
3. His Spirit fails not. 2 Kings iv, 2 ;
John iii. 34; vii, 38, 39; xiv. 16, 17 j
Ps, cxxxiii. 2 ; Isa. xi. 2 ; John i. 16 ;
I Cor. xii. 4-1 1 ; Rev. v. 6.
4. His compassions fail not. Lam.
iii. 22 ; Heb. xii. 6; Ps. ciii. 13; Matt.
ix. 36 ; xiv. 14-21 ; xx. 34; Mark i. 41 r,
Luke vii. 13 ; x, 33-35 ; xv, 20.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
H7
5. A treasure m the heavens fails not.
Lukexii. 33 ; Matt, x, 25 ; Phil. iv. 19 ;
Matt. vi. 19-21 ; Mark x. 21-23 ; Luke
xii. 32; John xiv. 1-3; Acts xx. 35;
Rom. viii, 28 ; 1 Cor. iii. 21-23 ; i Tim.
vi. 6-10 ; I Pet. i. 3-9.
6. Faith fails not. Luke xxii. 32 ;
John xvii, 9, 20 ; Rom. viii. 34 ; Phil. i.
6; Heb. ii. 17, 18; iv. 15; vii. 25; ix.
24 ; Ex. xxviii. 38.
7. Love fails not. i Cor; xiii. 8; Eph.
V. 2 ; 2 Cor. v. 14.
SEVEN THINGS TO WHICH WE
SHOULD TAKE HEED.
1. Take heed that no man deceive
/ou. Matt, xxiv. 4 : i Cor. x. 32 ; Matt,
sxiv. 42 ; Mark xiii. 33-37 ; Luke xii.
37-40 ; xxi. 34-36 ; John xiv. 3 ; xxi.
20-23 ; Acts i. II ; I Cor, i. 7 ; xi. 26;
Phil, iii. 20; I Thess. i. 10; Titus ii.
13 ; Heb. ix. 28 ; Rev. xxii. 7, 12, 20.
2. Take heed what ye hear. Mark
iv. 24 ; Prov. vi. 27 ; Isa. viii. 20 ; Matt,
xxiv. 35 ; John xiv. 26; xv. 3 ; xvi. 13 ;
xvii. 17 ; I Thess. ii. 13 ; i John ii. 27.
3. Take heed therefore how ye hear.
Luke viii. 18; i Sam. iii. 9, 10; Psalm
jxix. II ; Jer. xxii. 29 ; Acts xiii. 26; 2
rim. iii. 16, 17 ; Heb. ii. i ; iv. 2, 12 ;
James i. 22, 25 ; i Peter, i. 25.
4. Take heed to yourselves. Luke
xxi. 34 ; Phil. iii. 3 ; Psalm Ii. 5 ; Jer.
xvii. 9 ; Mark vii. 21-23 ; xiii. 9, 23, 33 ;
Acts XX. 28; Rom. vii. 18; i Cor. x.12;
I Tim. iv. 16.
5. Take heed how ye build, i Cor.
iii. 16; Mai. iii. 16; Matt. xxv. 40;
Mark ix. 41 ; Rom. xiv. 23 ; i Cor. x.
31 ; Gal. i. 10 ;. Col. iii. 23 ; Heb. xi. 6 ;
1 John ii. 28.
6. Take heed, brethren, lest there be
m any of. you an evil heart of unbelief.
Heb. iii. 12 ; Matt, xiii, 58 ; xvii. 20 ;
xxi. 21, 22 ; Mark vi. 6 ; xvi. 14 ; Luke
xvii. 5, 6 ; John v. 24 ; vii. 38 ; Acts ii.
44-47; Rom, i. 16 ; xi. 20 ; 2 Cor. iv.
13 ; 2 Tim. i. 12 ; Heb. xi.; i Pet. i, 8.
7. Take heed to the sure word of
prophecy. 2 Peter i, 19 ; Matt. xxiv.
42 ; Mark xiii. 33-37 ; Luke xii. 35-40 ;
John xiv. 3 ; Acts i. 11 ; i Thess. i. 10 ;
2 Tim. iv. 8 ; Titus ii. 13 ; Hebrews ix.
28 ; X, 37; James V. 8 : Rev, xxii, 20.
SEVEN THINGS ABOUT I'EACK.
1. It is made. Col, i. 20; Eph. ii.13,
14 ; Ecc. iii, 8 ; Isaiah ix. 6; xxvi. 12 ;
XX vii. 5; xxxii. 17; Iii. 5; Luke i. 79,
ii. 15.
2. It is preached. Acts x. 36 ; Eph.
ii. 17 ; Rom, viii, 7 ; i John iv, 10 ; John
iii. 16 ; XV. 13 ; Rom. v. 8 ; Gal. ii. 20 ;
Eph. ii. 4, 5.
3. It is given. John xiv. 27 ; John v.
24; Acts xiii. 39; xvi. 31 ; Rom, iv. 5 ;
1 John V. 13.
4. It is possessed. Rom, v. i ; Luke
vii, 50 ; Rom. v, 10, 11 ; 2 Cor. v. i»-2i;
Eph. ii, 8, 9.
5. It should fill the heart. Rom, xv.
13 ; Luke xi, 34-36 ; John xv. 7,11 ; Rom
xiv. 17; 2 Cor. V. 5-8; vi. 10 ; Phil.i.21.
iv. 13 J Col, iii. 17; I John i. 7 ; iii. 10.
6. It should keep the heart. Phil. iv.
6,7; Isaiah xxvi. 3, 4; Matt. vi. 34 ;
Luke xii. 22 ; Rom. viii. 28, 32 ; i Cor.
iii, 21-23 ; Phil. iv. 19.
7. It should rule the heart. Col. iii.
15 ; John xvi. 33 ; 2 Thess. iii.i6 ; Heb.
xiii, 20, 21 ; Rom, i. 7 ; i Cor, i, 3 ; 2
Cor, i. 2 ; Gal, i. 3 ; Eph. i, 2 ; Phil.i. 2;
Col. i. 2 ; Thess. i. i ; 2 Thess. i. 2 ; i
Tim.i.2 ; 2 Tim.i. 2 ; Titus i. 4 ; Philem.
3 ; I Peter i. 2 ; 2 Peter i. 2 ; 2 John 3;
.3 John 14 : Jude 2 ; Rev. 1. 4.
SEVENFOLD MEASURE OF
BLESSING.
1. Predestinated. Eph. i. 5 ; Deut.
vii. 7, 8 ; Jer. xxxi. 3 ; John xv. 16 ;
Rom. ix. 16; Eph. i. 4, 11 ; i Peter i.
2 ; Rev. iv. 11.
2. Called. Rom. viii. 28 ; Rom. viii.
30; Phil. i. 6; I Thess. v. 24; 2 Thess.
ii. 13, 14; I Tim. vi. 12; Heb. ix. 15 ;
I Peter v. 10 ; 2 Peter i. 3 ; i John iii.
1,2; Jude I ; Rev. xvii. 14.
3. Saved. Titus iii. 5 ; Matt. ix. 12,
13; Luke i. 72, 78; Rom. ix, 23. 24;
Eph. ii. 4-9 ; 2 Pet. i. 3.
4. Forgiven. Eph. i. 7 ; Heb. xi. 12 ;
John i. 16, 17; Acts xv. 11; Rom. iii.
24; iv. 16; V. I, 2 ; xi. 6; I Cor. xr.
10 ; 2 Cor. viii. 9 ; 7. Tim, i. 9.
248
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
5. strengthened. Col. i. 11 ; 2 Cor,
xii. 9, 10 ; 2 Kings vi. 15-17 ; Acts i. 8 ;
ri. 8 ; Rom, i. 16 ; xv, 13 ; i Cor. i. 18;
2 Cor. vi. 7 ; 2 Tim. i- 7, 8 ; i Pet. i. 5.
6. Supplied. Phil. iv. 19 ; i Cor. iii.
21, 22 ; Heb. xiii. 5, 6 ; Matt. vi. 25-34;
John xiv. 12-23 > Eph. iii. 20, 21.
7. To be fashioned, Phil. iii. 20, 21;
Rom. viii. 22, 23, 29; i Cor, i. 7 ; 2
Cor. v. I, 2 ; I Thess. i. 9, 10 ; ii. 19 ;
iii. 13 ; iv. 13-18 ; V. 1-6 ; 2 Thess. i. 10 ;
ii. 1-8 ; iii. 5 ; Heb. x. 37 ; James v. 7, 8;
Rev. xxii. 7, 12, 20.
SEVEN GIFTS OF GOD.
1. His Son. John iii. 16.
2. His Holy Spirit. John xiv. 16, 17;.
Acts ii. 38 ; Acts X. 45.
3. Faith. Eph. ii. 8 ; 2 Cor. iv. 13 ;
1 Cor. xii. 8, 9 ; Luke xvii. 5.
4. Grace. Rom. xii, 6; i Cor« i. 4 ;
2 Cor. vi. I ; Eph. iii. 7 ; Eph. iv. 7 ;
James iv. 6.
5. Righteousness. Rom. v. 17.
6. Peace. John xiv. 27.
7. Eternal life. Rom. vi. 23 ; i John
V. II ; 2 Cor. ix. 15. J. H. Brookes.
SEVEN PROOFS OF CHRIST'S
DIVINITY.
First, He is called God. Compare
Ps. xiv. 6, 7, with Heb. i. 8i 9 ; Isa.
ix. 1-6, with Matt, iv. 12-16; Isa. xl. 3;
liv. 5 ; Zech. xiv. 5 ; Matt. i. 22, 23 ;
John i. I ; x. 33 ; xx. 28 ; Rom. ix. 5 ;
I Tim. iii. 16 ; Tit. i. 3 ; ii. 13 ; i John
T. 20.
Second, He is called the Son of God
in the sense that implies sameness of
nature with the Father. Compare Psa.
ii. 7, with Acts xiii. 33 ; Matt. iii. 17 ;
xvi. 16 ; xvii. 5 J xxvii. 54 ; Mark iii. 11 ;
V. 7 ; xiv. 61, 62 ; Luke i. 35 ; x, 22 ;
John i. 18, 34, 49 ; iii. 18 ; v. 25 ; vi. 69;
ix. 35,36; X. 36; xi. 4, 27; xix. 7; XX. 31 ;
Acts viii. 37 ; Rom. i. 4 ; viii. 3 ; i Cor.
i. 9; 2 Cor. i. 19 ; Gal.- ii. 20; Eph. iv.
13 ; Col. i. 13 ; Heb. iv. 14 ; 2 Pet. i. 17;
I John i. 3, 7; ii. 22-24; iv, 9,10,14,
15 ; v. 5, 10, 13 ; Rev. ii. 18.
Third, He is called Lord in a way that
proves His infinite superiority to all
creatures. Matt. xii. 8 ; xx. 30 ; xxii.
43-45 . xxiv. 42 ; Mark v. 19, 20 ; ix.
24 ; xvi. 19, 20 ; Luke iii. 4 ; ix. 59-62 ;
x. 17 ; xiii. 25 ; xxiii. 42 ; John i. 23 ;
xi. 21, 22 ; xiii. 13 ; Acts i. 24 ; ii. 36 ; v.
14; vii. 59; ix. 6, 13 ; x. 36; Rom. i, 3;
iv. 24; vi, 23; xiv. 8; i Cor. i 3 ; viii.
6; xii. 3 ; 2 Cor. v. 10, 11 ; Gal. vi. 14 ;
Eph. iii. II ; Phil. ii. 11 ; Col. ii. 6 ; iii.
24 ; I Thess. iii. 13 ; 2 Thess. i, 8, 9 ; i
Tim. i. 2 ; 2 Tim. 1,2; Tit. i. 4 ; Phil.
3 ; Heb. ii. 3 ; James i. i ; i Pet. i. 3 ;
2 Pet. i. II ; 2 John 3 ; Jude 14 ; Rev.
xix. 16. The title of Lord is applied to
Him more than five hundred times in
the New Testament.
Fourth, He is declared to be equal
with God, John iii. 35 ; v. 17, 23; x. 30,
38; xii. 45 ; -xiv. 9, 11 ; xv. 23, 24; xvii,
5, 21, 23 ; Phil. ii. 6 ; Col. i. 15, 19; ii.
9 ; Heb. i. 1-3 ; i John ii. 21, 23, 24 ;
Rev. iii. 21.
Fifth, He performs the works of God ;
(i) in creating, John i. 3, 10 ; Eph. iii.
9; Col. i. 16'; Heb. i. io ; Rev. iii. 14;
(2) in preserving and upholding, Col. i.
17 ; Heb. i, 3 ; (3) in forgiving sins,
Mark ii, 5, 10 ; Luke vii. 48-50 ; Acts v.
31 ; (4) in imparting everlasting life,
Luke xxiii. 42, 43 ; John v. 25, 40 j vi. '
47 ; x. 10, 28 ; xvii. 2 ; {5) in bestowing
the Spirit and all spiritual blessings,
Luke xvii. 5 ; xxiv. 49 ; John xiv. 13 ;
XV. 26 ; I Cor. i. 4-6 j Eph. iv. 7 ; Phil,
iv. 13 ; (6) in raising the dead, John v.
21, 25-29 ; vi. 40; xi. 25 ; Phil. iii. 21 ;
I Thess. iv. 16 ; (7) in judging the world.
Matt. vii. 22 ; xvi. 27 ; xxv. 31 ; John
V. 22, 27 ; Acts X. 42 ; xvii. 31 ; Rom.
ii. 16 ; xiv. 10 ; 2 Cor. v. 10 ; 2 Tim. iv.
I ; Rev. i. 7 ; xxii. 12.
Sixth, He possesses the attributes and
perfections of God, for (i) He is said to
be eternal, Mic. v. 2, compared with
Matt. ii. 6 ; John i. 2 ; viii. 56, 58 ; xvii.
5, 24; Acts iii. 15 ; Heb. i. 11, 12 ; Rev.
i. 17; xxii. 13; (2) Omnipresent. Matt.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
249
xviii. 20; xxviii. 20; John iii. 13 ; Eph.
i. 23 ; (3) Omniscient, Matt, ix, 4 ; xii.
25 ; Mark ii. 8 ; Luke vi. 8 ; ix. 47 ; x.
22; John i. 48;ii. 24, 25 ;xvi. 30; xxi. 17 ;
Rev. ii. 23 ; (4) Omnipotent, Matt, xxviii.
18 ; John V. 17 ; x. 18 ; i Cor. i. 24 ; Col. i.
17 ; ii. ID ; Heb, vii. 25 ; Rev. i. 8 ; (3)
Unchangeable, Heb. i. 11,12; vii, 24 ;
xiii. 8 ; (6) Infinitely wise and loving, i
Cor. i. 24 ; Col. ii. 3 ; Eph iii. ig ; (7)
Sinless, Mark x. 18 ; John viii. 29, 46 ;
xiv. 30 ; Heb. vii. 26 ; i Pet. ii. 22 ; i
John iii. 5,
Seventh, He claimed and received
•divine worship ; compare Ex. xx. 3 ;
Matt. iv. 10 ; Acts xiv. 14 ; Rev. xix.
10, with Matt. ii. 2, 11 ; ix. 18 ; xiv. 33 ;
XV. 25 J XX. 20 ; xxviii. 9 ; Luke xxiv.
52 ; John ix. 38 ; xx. 28 ; Acts vii. 59 ;
Phil, ii, 10 J Heb. i. 6 ; Rev. v. 9-14 ; 2
Cor. xiii. 14 ; Rom. i. 7, and the begin-
ning of all the Epistles. If such a being
is not God, there is no God ; but, bless-
ed be His name for ever and ever, the
believer is hanging his interests for time
and for eternity upon the arm of One
who is almighty, and who by Himself
purged our sins. Love can not stoop
lower than when He descended to the
cross ; love can not rise higher than
•when it lifts us to his throne. J.H. B.
SEVEN OFFICES OF THE SPIRIT
IN JOHN.
1. Quickening, iii. 5, 6 : i. 12,13, 32,33.
2. Indwelling, iv, 14 ; Eph. iv. 30 ; i
Thess. V. 19.
3. Outflowing, vii. 37-39.
4. Comforting, John xiv. 16, 17 ; i
John ii. I ; Rom. viii. 9 ; i Cor. vi. 19 ;
I John ii. 27.
5. Teaching, xiv. 26 ; Rom. xii. 3 ; i
Cor. ii. 14 ; viii. 2 ; John vi. 63.
6. Reproving, xvi. 8.
7. Predicting, xvi. 13 ; Matt. i. 18 ;
Matt. iii. 16; Acts X. 38 ; Luke iv. i ;
Matt. xii. 28 ; Heb. ix. 14 ; Rom. viii.
ir ; Acts ii. 33, J. H. B.
THE SEVEN BEATITUDES OF
REVELATIG.N.
1. Blessed is he that readeth, and thev
that hear the words of this prophecy,
and keep those things which are written
therein : for the time is at hand, i. 3.
2. Blessed are the dead which die in
the Lord from henceforth : Yea, saith
the Spirit, that they may rest from their
labours ; ' and their works do follow
them, xiv. 13.
3. Blessed is he that watcheth, and
keepeth his garments, lest he walk
naked, and they see his shame, xvi. 15 ;
I Thess. V. 4 ; Luke xii. 36 ; i John
ii. 28. •
4. Blessed are they which are called
unto the marriage supper of the Lamb,
xix. 9 ; Eph. v. 27.
5. Blessed and holy is he that hath
part in the first resurrection, xx. 5 ; Phil,
iii. II.
6. Blessed is he that keepeth the say-
ings of the prophecy of this book, xxii. 7.
7. Blessed are they that do his com-
mandments, [wash their robes, according
to the correct rendering) that they may
have right to the tree of life, and may
enter in through the gates into the city,
xxiL 14 ; Rev. v.
J. H. B.
SEVEN TOGETHERS.
1. We are gathered together. Matt,
xviii. 20 ; Phil. iii. 3.
2. As the result of being gathered to-
gether, we are united together. What
therefore God hath joined together, let
not man put asunder. Matt, xix. 6 ; Acts
ii. 44 ; iv. 23 ; I Cor. xii. 12-26.
3. Being united, we are builded to-
gether. In Christ all the building,
fitly framed together, groweth unto an
holy temple in the Lord : in whom ye
also are builded together for an habita-
tion of God through the Spirit, Eph. ii.
21, 22 ; Zech. iv. 7,
4. As builded together, we must be
found striving together. Only let your
conversation be as becometh the gospel
of Christ : that, whether I come and
see you, or else be absent, I may hear
2-;.)
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
Dt your afiairs, that ye stand fast m one
spirit, with cue mind, striving together
for the faith of the gospel, Fhih i. 27 ;
Heb. X. 25 ; Kom. xii. 4, 5.
5. Thus striving together, and giving
Evidence that we are walking in fellow-
ship with our Lord, He who is the Head
over all things to the Church makes all
things subserve our interests ; for, we
know that all things work together for
^ood to them that love God, to them
who are the called according to his
purpose, Rom. viii. 28 ; i Cor. iii. 21-23.
6. For the Lord himself shall descend
from heaven with a shout, with the
voice of the archangel, and with the
trump of God, and the dead in Christ
shall rise first : then we which are alive
0
and remain, shall be caught up together
with them in the clouds, to meet the
Lord in the air : and so shall we ever
be with the Lord, i Thess. iv. 16, 17.
7. As we commenced with two or
three gathering together here on earth.
so we conclude with another great and
glorious gathering in the skies, for we
read of our gathering together unto
Him, 2 Thess. i. i ' Rev. xxi. 4 ; Rev.
xxii. 20, J. H. B.
SEVEN THINGS SAID OF THE
BELIEVER'S SINS.
1. They have been laid on Christ, Isa.
feii. 6 ; I Pet. ii. 24 ; 2 Cor. v. 21.
2. They have been blotted out, Isa.
xliv. 22 ; Col. ii. 14 ; Rev. iii. 5.
3. They have been removed, Ps. ciii.
12 ; Lev, xvi. 21. 22.
4. They have been forgiven, Rom. iv.
7 ; Eph. i. 7 ; Luke vii. 48 ; Col. ii. 13.
5. They have been cast behind God's
back, Isa. xxxviii. 17.
6. They are cast into the depths of
the sea, Micah vii. 19.
7. They are forgotten, Jer. xxxi. 34 ;
Heb. vii. 12 ; ix. 17. J. H. B.
SEVEN THINGS THE BELIEVER
SHOULD REMEMBER ABOUT
THE FLESH.
I. That he is under no obligation to
it. We are debtors not to the flesh.
Rom. viii. 12 ; viii. 8 ; Gal. vi. 8 ; Rom.
viii. 6, margin ; Rom. vii. 25 ; viii. 7,
margin.
2. That he must not make it his
companion. Who walk not after the
flesh, Rom. viii. 4 ; Eph. iv. 19 ; Phil,
iii. 19 ; Gen. xiii. 9.
3. That he must not make any allow-
ance for it. Make not provision for the
flesh, Rom. xiii, 14.
4. He must not give it an opportunity"
to show itself. Use not liberty for art
occasion to the flesh, Gal. v. 13.
5. That he must not trust it under
any circumstances. For we have no
confidence in the flesh, Phil. iii. .3
6. That he must not expect any good
thing from it. In my flesh dwelleth no
good thing, Rom. vii. 18 ; It is sinful,
Rom. viii. 3; Unclean, Gal. v. 19; Filthy,
2 Cor. vii. I ; Corrupt, Gen. vi. 12 ; Job
xiv. 4.
7. He must not look upon it as a dead
thing. And they that are Christ's
have crucified the flesh. Gal. v. 24 ;
Rom. vii. 24.
May the Lord Jesus grant that we
may all through the Spirit mortify the
deeds of the body, Rom. viii". 1 3 ; and
not fulfil the lust of the flesh, Gal. v. 16.
R. A. O.
SEVEN THINGS ABOUT CHRIST.
1. Christ is wisdom, Prov. viii. 22-
31 ; I Cor. i, 18-31.
2. Christ is light, Luke i. 76-79 ; Joho.
i. 4 ; ix. 5 ; 2 Cor. iv. 6.
3. Christ is health, Prov. xiii. 17 ;;
Jer. XXX. 17 Matt. viii. 17 ; Luke iv.
18, 19. Let sin-sick souls know upon
the sure testimony of the word that the
power of the Lord is present to heal
them, and straightway sing with joy,
The great Physician now is near,
The sympathizing .Jesus :
He speaks, the drooping heart to cheer,
O hear the voice of Jesus.
4. Christ is the antidote to the deadly
poison of sin. Num. xxi. 8 ; John iii. 14;
Rom. iii. 24.
5. Christ is life, John xiv. 6 ; Rom.
vi. 23 ; I John v. ii, 12 ; Col. iii. 4 :.
John xiv. 19.
6. Christ is heaven, John iii. 13 ; xiv.
3 ; Rev. vii. 17; Phil. iii. 20.
7. Christ is ours. Happy is the be-
liever who can say in simple faith...
" My beloved is mine, and I am his,"
Song of Sol. ii. 16; 2 Cor. vi. 10; i Cor.
iii. 21-23 ; Rom. viii. 16, ij. J. H. B.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
SEVEN " ARES " IN I COR. VI.
1 . Ye are washed. Trace throughout
the Bible the two washings, with blood
and with water as the symbul of the
word of God. Rev. i. 5 ; vii. 14 ; i John
i. 7; Lev. xvii. 11 ; Matt. xxvi. 28;
Rom. iii. 20-26 | v. 9 ; Eph. i. 7 ; Col.
i. 20-22; Heb. ix. 11-22 ; i Pet. i. 18,
19 ; Ex. xxix. 4 ; John xiii. i-io ; xv.
3 ; xix. 34, 35 ; Eph. v. 26 ; Heb. x. 19-
22 ; I John v. 6, 8.
2. Ye are sanctified. Consider the
standing of the believer as already-
sanctified in the Father's view, and then
as manifesting his position before God
in a life of practical and progressive
holiness, observing how the latter is
always represented as springing from
the former, i Cor. i, 2, 30 ; Acts xx. 32 ;
xxvi. 18 ; Heb. ii. 11 ; x. 10, 14; xiii.
12 ; I Pet. i. 14-16 ; Lev. xi.44, 45 : xx.
24-26 ; John xvii. 19 ; i Cor. iii. 17 ;
Col. iii. 12 ; Heb. iii. i ; Jude 20.
3. Ye are justified. Notice that it
means just the opposite of the word
(ondemn, Deut. xxv. i ; Jobix. 20 ; Isa.
I. 8, 9 ; Prov. xvii. 15 ; Rom. viii. 33,
34 ; Job xxv. 4 ; Acts xiii. 39 ; Rom.
iii. 20-30.; iv. 5 ; v. i, 9 ; Gal. ii. 16 | v.
4 ; James ii. 17-26.
4. Know ye not that your bodies are
the members of Christ? Here we have
the present tense, denoting continuous
action, i Cor. xii. 27 ; Rom. xii. 5 ; Eph.
i- 22, 23 ; V. 30 ; Col. i. 18, 24:; iii. 1-5.
5. Ye are not your own. Here again
is the present tense, showing our lasting
obligation and privilege, Rom ^iv. 7, 8 ;
I Cor. X. 31 ; xii. 7 ; 2 Cor. v. ix \ Gal.
vi. 14 ; Phil. i. 21 ; 2 Tim. ii. 4 ; i Pet.
hr. 10.
6. Ye are bought with a price. The
demanded price of our redemption was
paid and accepted. Acts xx. 28 ; Gal. i.
4 ; ii. 20 ; Eph. ii. 13 ; Col. i. 12-14 J
Tit. ii. 14 ; Heb. ix. 26-28 ; Rev. v. 9.
7. Therefore glorify God in your body,
and in your spirit, which are God's.
The best authorities omit the last clause,
but the same truth is abundantly taught
elsewhere, Rom. xi. 36 ; 2 Cor. v; 5, 18 ;
Eph. ii. 8-10 : Tit. iii. 5 ; Rev. iv. 11.
J. H. B.
SEVEN ALLUSIONS TO
■■ ONE THING.'
1. Death, Ecc. iii. ig. It is not cer-
tain that believers now on the earth
shall die, i Thess. iv. 17 ; i Cor. xv. 51.
But, unbelievers, however exalted their
social station, however remarkable their
scientific attainments, shall surely die
even as the beasts ; and if they die in.
unbelief, they will mourn with unavail-
ing regret through eternity that they
had not ceased to exist, like beasts, in
the dark hour of death. Alas ! they are
dead already, John v. 40 | 2 Cor. v. 14 r
Eph. ii. I ; i Tim. v. 6 ; i John v. 12.
2. Salvation, Markx. 21. This salva-
tion by grace every dying son and
daughter of Adam's race must have, or
perish forever. The best can do with
nothing less ; the worst need nothing,
more, John iii. 7-18 ; Acts iv. 12 ; x. 43 ;
xiii. 39 ; xvi. 31 ; Rom. x. 9 ; Eph. i. 7 ;
Col. i. 12-14 ; I Pet. i. 19 ; i John i. 7.
3. Assurance. One thing I know»^
that, whereas I was blind, now I see,.
John ix. 25 ; i. II, 12 ; v. 24 ; Matt. xi.
28 ; Isa. xlv. 22 ; Lev. xvi. 21 ; Heb. x.
19-22 ; Eph. ii. i-io ; i John v. 13.
4. Communion. One thing have I
desired of the Lord, that will I seek
after ; that I may dwell in the house of
the Lord all the days of my life, to
behold the beauty of the Lord, and to-
enquire in his temple, Psa. xxvii. 4. It
is well to remember that communion
follows assurance, as assurance foUows
salvation, and that the word fellmvship
is the same as the word partnership, i
John i. 3 ; Luke v. 7 ; Ex. xxv. 22-30 ;
Rom, viii. 17; i Cor. iii. 21-23 ; x. 16-
21 : 2 Cor. vi. 14-18.
J Devotedness. But one thing is
needful : and Mary hath chosen the
good part, which shall not be taken away
from her, Luke x. 42 ; Matt. xx. 28.
Nothing pleases Him so much as to see
His people forgetful of everything but
His presence and suj6&ciency for all their
wants, and nothing will throw such
2^2
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
•light upon our path as to keep the eye
^exclusively fixed upon Him, Luke xi.
34"36 ; John viii. 12 ; xv. 7 ; 2 Cor. v.
14, 15 ; vi. ID ; Gal. i. 10 ; Phil. i. 21 ;
Rev. xiv. 4.
6. Progress. This one thing I do,
forgetting those things which are behind,
and reaching forth unto those things
which are before, I press toward the
mark for the prize of the high calling of
God in Christ Jesus, Phil. iii. 13, 14.
The apostle did not feel the slightest
■anxiety about his salvation, but he
wanted the prize ; and hence he con-
tinually pressed forward that he might
lay hold of that for which also he was
laid hold of by Christ Jesus, i Cor. iii.
12-15 ; ix. 24-26 ; Gal. vi. 7; 2 Tim. iv.
6-8 ; James i. 12 ; 2 Pet. iii. 18 ; Rev.
iii. II.
7. The coming of the Lord. Beloved,
be not ignorant of this one thing, that
©ne day is with the Lord as a thousand
years, and a thousand years as one day,
2 Pet. iii. 8 ; Matt. xxiv. 36-51 ; Mark
xiii- 33-37 ; Luke xii. 35-40 ; xvii. 26-37;
xxi. 34-36 J John xiv. 3 ; Acts i. 11 ;
Rev. vii. 7, 12, 20. J. H. B.
SEVEN REASONS FOR COMING
TO THE LORD'S SUPPER.
1. The participation of all Christians
is an act of obedience. Matt. xxvi. 26,
27 ; Mark xiv. 22 ; i Cor. xi. 24.
2. It is an act of remembrance, Luke
xxii. 19 ; I Cor. xi. 24, 25,
3. It is an act of testimony to His
■death, i Cor. xi. 26 ; v. 7.
4. It is an act of confession that sal=
vation is through His blood, Matt. xxvi.
28 ; Luke xii. 8, 9 ; Rom. x. 9, ro ;
Rev. iii. 5.
5. It is an act of fellowship, i Cor. x.
16, 17.
6. It is an act of praise and thanks-
giving, Luke xxii. 19; i Cor. x. 16; xi. 24.
7. It is an act silently but powerfully
proclaiming His second coming, i Cor.
xi.26. J. H.B.
SEVEN THINGS ABOUT SIN.
I. Sin is folly, Psa. xlix. 11-13; Ixxxv.
8 ; Prov. xiv. 9 ; xxviii. 26 ; Luke xii.
20 : Eph. V. 15.
2. Sin is darkness, Prov. iv. 19 ; Luke
i« 79 ; John i. 5 j iii. 18 ; 2 Cor. iv. 3,
X • Col. i. 12, 13.
3. Sin is sickness, Isa. i. 5, 6 ; Matt,
ix. 12.
4. Sin is poison, Num. xxi. 6 ; Psa.
Iviii. 3, 4 ; Rom. iii. 10-13.
5. Sin is death, Rom. v. 12 ; vi. 23 ;
vii. 5 ; James i. 15.
6. Sin is hell, Luke xii. 4, 5 ; xvi. 22,
23 ; 2 Pet. ii. 1-9.
7. Sin was ours who are now saved.
Psa. li. 5 ; Ecc. vii. 20 ; Rom. iii.. 22,
23 ; Eph. ii. 1.3. J. H. B.
THE SEVEN WEEPINGS OF
JOSEPH AND ISRAEL.
Joseph is regarded as a type of Christ.
1. He turned from his brethren and
wept, and took from them Simeon, and
bound him. Genesis xlii. 24.
2. At their second visit, so moved was
he at the sight of Benjamin he sought
where to weep, and he entered into his
chamber and wept there; Gen. xliii. 30.
3. When he made himself known
to his brethren he wept aloud, or, he
gave forth his voice in weeping. (Margin.)
Genesis xiv. 2.
4. Having comforted his brethren, he
wept on Benjamin's neck ; moreover ha
kissed all his brethren, and wept upon
them. Genesis xiv. 14, 15.
5. At Goshen, where he went to meet
his father, he fell on his neck, and wept
on his neck a good while. Gen. xivi. 29.
6. When Jacob died, Joseph fell upon
his father's face and wept upon him and
kissed him. Genesis 1. i.
7 . After the death and burial of Jacob -
when, through fear that Joseph would
punish them for all the wrong they had
done him, they besought his forgiveness,
he wept when they spake to him. Genesis
1.17.
In further illustration that weeping
may symbolically represent the sin and
danger of disobedience to God and its
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
253^
punishment, we find, in the history of
Israel, that on seven different occasions
they manifested their sorrow in tears.
1 . Loathing the manna, they wept and,
said. Who shall give us flesh to eat ?
Num. xi. 5.
2. Refusing to believe the good report
of Caleb and Joshua . and go up and
possess the land, they cried, and all the
people wept, and murmured, and said.
Would God we had died in this wilder-
ness. Num. xiv. I, 2.
3. When God had commanded them
not to go to battle against the Amorites,
but they rebelled and were defeated,
they returned and wept before the Lord.
Deut. i. 43-45.
4. They wept for Moses at his death
thirty days. Deut. rxxiv. 8.
5. When rebuked at Bochim by an
angel, for disobedience to God, they lifted
up their voice and wept. Judges ii. 4.,
6. When defeated in battle with
Benjamin, they wept before the Lord
until even, and asked counsel of the
Lord. Judges xx, 23.
7. Having almost destroyed the
Benjamite.s, they came to the house of
G-^d and abode there till even before
God, and lifted up their voices and wept
sore. Judges xxi. 2.
Behold, what manner of love thf
Father hath bestowed upon us, that we
should be called the sons of God. r
John iii. i,
Behold, I come quickly ; and My
reward is with Me, to give every man-
according as his work shall be. Rev
xxii. 12.
THE 'BEHOLDS' OF GOD'S WORD.
Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation
i stone, a tried stone, a precious comer
jtone, a sure foundation. Isa. xxviii. 16.
Behold the lamb of God, which taketh
iway the sin of the world. John i. 29.
Behold, now is the accepted time ;
Dehold, now is the day of salvation.
2 Cor. vi. 2.
Behold, I stand at the door, and
Knock : if any man hear My voice, and
Dpenthe door, I will come in to him,
ind will sup with him, and He with Me.
Rev. iii. 20.
Behold, God is my salvation ; I will
trust, and not be afraid : for the Lord
fehovah is my strength and my song ;
He also is become my salvation. Isaiah
iii. 2.
FIVE PLACES.
I. A barren place, the wilderness. 3;.
Testing places, Marah and Peniel. 3.
Pleasant places, Psa. xvi.. 16. 4. Quiet
resting places, Isa. xxxii. 18. 5. For-
gotten resting places, Jer. 1. 6. T. W. H.
FIVE "HEAVENLIES" IN EPH
Heavenly places.
Heavenly places.
Heavenly places.
Heavenly places.
Heavenly places.
Chap. i. 3.
Chap, i. 20.
Chap. ii. 6.
Chap. iii. 10.
Chap, vi, 12.
THE BELIEVER WAITS FOR
THREE THINGS.
Glory to be revealed. Rom. viii, 18,
19, 23.
Hope of righteousness. Gal. v. 5.
The Son from Heaven, i Thes. i. 10,,
THREE STEPS TO THE LOST.
Neglecting. Heb. ii. 3.
Refusing. Heb. xii. 25.
Despising. Heb. x. 28.
THREE WARFARES.
Of the flesh. Rom. viii. 12, 13,
Of the world, i John. ii. 15.
Of the devil. Eph. vi. 11-16.
EIGHT "WITHOUTS."
Heb. ix. 22 ; Heb. xii. 14 ; Jas. ii. 26 j-
John XV. 5 ; Heb. x. 16 ; Heb. xii. 8 ;
I Cor. xiii. 1-3 ; Heb. xiii. 13.
FOUR FAITHFUL SAYINGS.
I Tim. i. 15 ; iv, 8, 9 ; 2 Tim.ii. 11-13;;
Titus iii. 8.
FOUR PRECIOUS BLESSEDS.
The walk. Psalm i. i.
Sin covered. Psalm xxxii. i.
Chosen. Psalm Ixv. 4.
Watching. Prov. viii. 34.
254
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS
SIX CITIES OF REFUGE.
Joshua XX. 7, 8.
Kedish. — Holy. 2 Cor. v. 21,
Shechem. — Shoulder, Luke xv. 5.
Hebron, — Friendship. Prov,xviii.24.
Bezer. — Stronghold. Psalm xxxi. 3.
Ramoth. — High place. Hab. iii. 19.
Golan. — Happy. Prov. xvi. 20.
SIX PRAYERS ANSWERED BY
GOD IN THE GIFT OF HIS SON.
Lead me in thy truth. Psalm xxv. 5.
Lead me in a plain path. Psalm
xxvii. II.
Lead me to the rock, &c. Psalm
Ixi. 2.
Lead me iii the way everlasting.
Psalm cxxxix. 24.
Lead me into the land of uprightness.
Psalm cxliii. 10.
For thy name's sake lead and guide
me. Psalm xxxi. 3.
Answer. — I have given Him for a
leader . . . , to the people. Isaiah Iv. 4.
THE BETTERS OF HEBREWS.
The Son better than angels — Chap. i.
4. Christ better than Melchisedec. —
'Chap, vii, 7, Better hope. — Chap, vii
jg. Better testament. — Chap. vii. 22.
Better covenant. — Chap. viii. 6. Better
promises. — Chap. viii. 6. Better sacri-
fice.— Chap. ix. 23. Better substance.-
Chap. X. 34. Better country'. — Chap,
xi. 16, Better resurrection. — Chap. xi.
35. Better thing for us. — Chap. xi. 40.
The blood of Christ better than that of
Abel. — Chap. xii. 24.
THE FIFTEEN SEVENS IN THE
REVELATION.
.Seven churches. Chap. i. 4.
.Seven spirits. Chap. i. 4.
Seven candlesticks. Chap. i. 12.
Seven stars. Chap. i. 16.
.Seven lamps. Chap. iv. 5.
Seven seals. Chap, v. i.
Seven trumpets. Chap. viii. 2.
Seven thunders. Chap. x. 3.
Seven heads. Chap, xii, 3.
Seven crowns. Chap. xii. 3.
Seven plagues. Chap. xv. 8,
Seven vials. Chap. xv. 7.
Seven angels. Chap. xv. 7.
Seven mountains. Chap. xvii. 9.
S^ven kings. Chap. xvii. 10.
THE SIX WONDERS IN REV-
ELATION.
Great wonder in heaven. Chap. xii, i.
Great wonder in heaven. Chap. xii. 3.
John wondered with admiration.
Chap, xvii, 6.
All the world wondered. Chap, xiii.3.
They that dwell on the earth shall
wonder. Chap. xvii. 8.
Great wonders. Chap, xiii, 13.
EIGHT LOVING HINTS.
1. Come by faith to the blood of
Christ, yea, to Christ himself, that your
sins may be pardoned. Lev. xvii. 11 ;
Heb. ix. 14, 22 ; Eph. i. 7.
2. Seek by prayer the help of the
Holy Spirit. Luke xi, 13 ; Rom.viii.26.
3. Try to recollect continually that
God is always present, knowing every
thought you think, every word you speak,
and observing everything you do. Prov.
XV. 3 ; Psalm cxxxix. 2 ; Ezek, xi. 5 ;
Heb, iv. 13.
4. Live upon Christ as the life-giving
root of all true holiness. John vi, 15 ;
Col. ii, 3.
5. Before you speak, ask these three
questions : — Is what I am going to say
true ? Is it useful ? Is it kind ?
Psalm cxx, 2 ; cxli. 3 ; Prov. xv. i ;
Eph. iv.
6. Pray for a calm and thoughtful
state of mind, trusting always in the
Lord, for you know not what a day may
bring forth. Job xxii. 21 ; Isaiah xxvi.
3 ; Hag, i. 5 ; Matt. xi. 29.
7. Remember, if religion has done
nothing for our tempers, it has done
little for our souls ; therefore, be kind,
merciful.cheerful, meek, and affectionate.
Rom, xiii. 10 ; James i.26 ; i Peter iii. 8.
8. Work, while it is ca,lled to-day, for
the glory of God and the good of men.
John ix, 4 ; i Cor. x. 31 ; Gal, vi. 10.
THREE ALSOS.
Where I am, there ye may be also.
John xiv, 3. The same place.
He that believeth on Me, the works
that I do shall he do also. The same
occupation.
Because I live, ye shall life also. John
xiv. 9, The same life.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
255
TWELVE GOLDEN RULES FOR
CHRISTIAN FAMILIES.
From the Book of Books.
l>e not conformed to this world.
Kvm. xii. 2.
.0 ye followers of God, as dear chil-
^ 1. Eph. V. I.
3e ye sober, and watch unto prayer.
i 'eter iv. 7.
lie kindly affectioned one to another.
om. xii. 10.
3e content with such things as ye
ave. Heb. xiii. 5.
Be ye doers of the Word, and not
earers only. James i. 22.
Be ye of one mind, live in peace. 2
Jor. xiii. 11.
Be patient toward all men. i Thess.
'/. 14.
Be clothed with humility, i Peter v .5 .
Be pitiful, be courteous, i Peter iii. 8.
Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice.
C^salm xxxii. 11.
Be ye ready for the Son of Man cometh.
.Luke xii. 40.
HE THREE FULL ASSURANCES
OF HOLY SCRIPTURE.
1. Full assurance of faith. Heb .x. 22.
2. Full assurance of understanding,
ol. ii. 2
3. Full assurance of hope. Heb.vi.ii.
NINE HOLD-FASTS.
I Thess. V. 21, 22 ; Tim. i. 13
V
iii. 6 ; Heb. iv
.25 ; Rev. iii. 3
i. 13 ; Heb.
14 ; Heb. x. 23 ; Rev.ii.
Rev. iii. II ; Job xxvii.6.
THE WHOSOEVERS
Joel ii. 32 ; Rom. x. 13 ; John iii. 15 ;
John iii. 16; Rom. x. 11
John xii. 46 ; Matt. x. 32
Acts X. ii3 ; Rev. :ixii. 17,
3. A sure reward. — And whatsoevei
ye shall ask in My name that will 1 do,
that the Father may be glorified in the
Son. John xiv. 13.
FOUR BLESSED FACTS.
God working for us. i Sam. xiv. 6
John xvii. 4.
God working in us.
xiii. 21.
God working by us.
God working with us
Phil. ii. 13; Hfcb.
2 Cor. V. 20.
Mark xvi. 20.
THE FOUR SUPPERS.
The supper of salvation. Luke xiv. 16.
The supper of communion, i Cor.
xi. 25.
The supper of joy. Rev. xix. 9.
The supper of judgment. Rev.xix.17.
I John v. I ;
I John iv, 15;
THREE THINGS CHRIST GIVES
US IN PRAYER.
1. Liberty. — To enter into the holiest
by the blood of Jesus. Heb. x. 19.
2. Ability. — For we know not what
we should pray for as we ought, but the
Spirit maketh intercession for us with
groanings which cannot be uttered.
'Kom. viii. 26-
FOUR HORSES.
To conquer. Rev. vi. 2.
To take peace. Rev. vi. 4.
Justice. Rev. vi. 5.
Death. Rev. vi. 8.
LOVE.— WORLD.— BELIEVE.—
LIFE.
Four words which characterise John'*
gospel, and all four in John iii. 16, In
the four gospels they occur thus :
Life in Matt, seven times ; Mark foui
times : Luke six times ; John thirty-six
times.
Love in Matt, twelve times j
five times ; Luke fifteen times ;
fifty-six times.
World in Matt, nine times ;
three times ; Luke three times j
seventy-nine times.
Believe, in Matt, eleven times \
fifteen times ; Luke eight times
ninety-nine times.
Mark
John
Mark
John
Mark
John
HITHERTO.
Forgiven. Num. xiv. 19.
Blessed. Josh, xvii, 14.
Helped, i Sam. vii. 12.
(Marg.)
HENCEFORTH.
Henceforth walk not as other Gent.lcs
walk. Eph. iv. 17.
Henceforth we should not serve s:n.
Rom. vi. 6.
That they.. should not henceforth
live unto themselves, but unto Him. 2
Cor. V. 15.
Henceforth be no more children.
Eph. iv. 14.
Z5^
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS
Henceforth I call you not servants. .
but. .friends. John xv. 15.
The Lord is round about His people
from henceforth. Ps. cxxv. 2.
Hope in the Lord from henceforth.
Ps. cxxxi. 3.
My words . . shall not depart out of
thy mouth. . from henceforth. Is. lix. 21.
Henceforth there is laid up for me a
crown of righteousness. 2 Tim. iv. 8,
HENCEFORTH.
Eph. IV. 17 ; Micah iv. 7 ; Ps. cxxxi.
3 ; Rom. vi. 6 ; John xv. 15 ; Is. lix. 21 ;
2 Cor. V. 15 ; Ps, cxxv. 2 ; 2 Tim. iv. 8 ;
Is. ix. 7 ; Is. lii. i ; Matt, xxiii. 39 ;
Luke V. 10 ; Acts xviii. 6 ; Rev. xiv. 13.
HEAVEN.
Bible representations of Heaven as
a Kingdom. Matt, xviii. l^ : 2 Peter
i. II.
As a City. Rev. xxii. 2-5 ; xxi. 21-26.
As a Home. John xiv. 2 ; Eph. iii. 15.
As a Rest. Heb. iv. 9 ; Rev. xiv. 13.
As /an Inheritance. Col. i. 12 ; i
Peter i. 3-5.
GLORIOUS STATE OF HEAVEN'S
REDEEMED.
Bodily perfection, i John iii. 24 ; Phil,
iii. 21.
Intellectual perfection, i Cor. xiii.
12 ; Rev. vii. 14.
Happiness of Heaven. Rev. vii. 5;
xvi. 17; Ps. xvi. II.
Being with Jesus. John xiv. 3 ; xvii.
24 ; Col. iii. 4.
Qualification for Heaven. John xiv.
2 ; Heb. xii. 14 ; Rev. xxi. 27 ; xxii. 14.
Rev. J. Potts.
HOW TO USE THE BIBLE.
Having studied the Bible, it is im-
portant that we know how to use it, and
nowhere is this knowledge so essential
as in our personal work for Christ. In
this personal work we can divide those
we meet into classes. They are : First,
the professing Christian who has no
liberty, and no assurance, but is in
" Doubting castle." The whole of John's
first epistle was written for such. Use
I John V. 13 ; iii. 2, 14, and 24.
The second class are backsliders.
Use Jeremiah ii. 5, 13, 19, 27, and 32 ;
iii. 12, 13, 14, and 22, Rosea xiv. 1, l*.
and 4 ; examples of backsliders reclaim-
ed, David, Peter, Thomas and all the
disciples.
The third class are those not deeply
convicted of sin. Use Romans iii. 10,
12, and 23; Isaiah i. 5 and 6; i John*
i. 10 ; Isaiah liii. 6.
Avoid speaking false peace. Don't
tell a man he is converted. Let God
tell him that. See Jeremiah vi. 14.
The fourth class think themselves tooi
great sinners. They are under very
deep conviction. Use Isaiah i. 18 ; liii^
4 and .5 ; i Peter ii. 24 ; Isaiah xliii. 25 ;
xliv. 22 ; Romans v. 6.
The fifth class don't know how to
come to Christ. 'They must receive a
person, not a creed. John i. 12. They
must believe. John iii. 15, 16, 18, and 36 ;.
v. 24 ; vi. 40 and 47. They must trust.
Isaiah xxvi. 3 ; Psalms xxxiv. 8, They
must take, a gift. Revelation xxii. 17;
Psalms cxvi. 13 ; Romans vi. 23. They
must come. John vi. 37 ; Isaiah Iv. i.
The new birth. John iii. 7; i John
V. I and 4.
The sixth class don't feel that they are
saved. Nowhere in the Bible is feeling
coupled with salvation.
The seventh class go away trusting,
and come back doubting. They have
neglected to confess Christ. Use Romana
X. 9 and 10 ; Matthew x.32.
The eighth class are afraid they will'
fall. Use Jude 24 ; Isaiah xli. ic
and 13 ; 2 Timothy i. 12 ; Romans viii^
35 and 39 ; Colossians iii. 3 and 4.
The ninth class say they can't be-
lieve. Use John vii. 17.
The tenth class say they will try tc
be saved. Use Romans iv. 5.
Why people are unsaved. John v. 40.
Who are invited ? Luke xix. 10 ;
Matt. ix. 12 ; Luke v. 32.
The time to be saved. See Isaiah lv>
6 ; 2 Corinthians vi. 2 ; Hebrews iii. 7;.
The danger of delay. See Prov. i.
24, 28.
NOTES FOR BIBLE READINGS.
257
Warnings. See Psalm ix. 17; 2
Peter ii. 9.
Contrasts in conversions. There are
no two alike. Matthew, Nicodemus,
the woman at the well, the thief on the
cross, Lydia, the Jailor, the Eunuch, Paul,
the Centurion. Use the great invitations
Revelation xxii. 17; Matthew xi. 28;
Isaiah Iv, i. D. L. Moody.
FALLING LEAVES.
If God lays in proportionate grace, it
matters not what suffering He lays on.
2 Cor. xii. 9.
There is nothing real about the world
but its vanity. Job vii. 3.
Full pardon and full joy may well
be expected from the Saviour ; for in
Christ all fulness dwells. Col. i, 19.
It is vain to expect calm spiritual
peace apart from cle? * scriptural views.
John xvii. 17.
Blessed is he that M-ould rather grievo
his dearest earthly friend than grieve
the Spirit. Eph. iv. 30.
How many would rather have their
praises sounded by men, than have
their souls saved by God ! Matt. vi. 2.
It is not to the mere teaching of a
child, but to the training God gives the
promise. Prov. xxii. 6.
A sure mark of a tender conscience is
a readiness to suffer rather than to sin.
Heb. xi. 25.
Many wish to seem right, but the
Christian wishes to be right. Paalm
xix. 12, 13.
We may be administrators, but we
are not proprietors of the things we
possess. Psalm xxiv. i.
258
CONTENTS.
CONTENTS.
Assurances 93
Assurances — Three full 255
Assurance of faith 193
Assurance of the world 203
Adoption 98, 103, 206
Against Christ — for Christ 94, 95
All are sinners 116
Able 136
All things of the Bible 161
All things in Christ l6i
All mine are Thine, and Thine are
mine 187
All. Psalm cxlv 161
All 161, 201
Abiding 171
Association with Christ 186
Admonitions hourly 206
Acceptance renewed 207
A study. Mark chap, i 218
As— So 218
As and So of the Bible 219
A few texts for a sorrowful widow. . 234
Anxious souls, For 107
A place for you 227
Action, a good 226
Alsos (three) 254
Blindness , 108
Blood that maketh atonement,&c. 1 14, 182
Blood, Precious 182, 184
Blood of Christ, value and efficacy. . 183
Blood of Christ, The 184
Backsliders 116, 121
Bible, The 88
Books of the Bible 38
Bible readings 7, 73
Bible, How to study the — 9, 19, 21,
23, 39> 85
Bible, How to read the 33, 34
Bible invitations. 155
Bible, Reading of the 37
Bible study. Methods of 49
Bible study 5Ij 7^, 79, 81
Bible reading. Consecutive 57
Bible reading and marking 59
Bible in the Inquiry Room. 61
Bible, How used with Christian
workers 67
Bible, The English 70
Bible, Key notes to the Books of the 79
Bible, How to use the 256
Bible testimonies about intemper-
ance 222
Bible and Sunday School machinery 229
Bible and childhood 229
Beloved, The 159
Believer, what is given, &c 177
Believing, The result of 99
Believer, The future of the 176
Believer, Attitudes of the 1 74
Believer, Life of the 173
Believer, Promises to the 171
Believer's, Blessings, the measure of 1 72
Believer's positioa in Christ 170
Believer's walk 171
Believer's life in all things 172
Believer's calling, The 174
Believer's future treasure and reward 176
Believer's standing, The.. 171, 171, 177
Believers, A gift to 176
Believer's peace of heart 178
Believers, Relative duties of 178
Believer's fellowship, The ......... 185
Believer waits for three things, The 253
Be ye followers of God 177
Blessed 202
Blessed facts. Four 255
Blotted out 202
Balaam's parables 222
Blessedness of believers, &c 103
Betters of Hebrews 254
Christ Jesus, a Saviour 93
Christ Jesus a Saviour to the utter-
most 93
Christ Jesus the sin bearer 93
Christ Jesus our peace 93
Christ Jesus our Saviour 97
Christ says 97
Christ the perfect minister 147
Christ Jesus the source of our peace. 97
Christ's death, Benefits of 152
Christ, the mind of 162
Christ Jesvis, The man 149
Christ for us, to us and in us 149
Christ our salvation 151
Christ our life 152
Christ, Sevenfold testimony to 162
Christ for his own 152
Christ, Sharers with 232
Christ, the whole armour of God. ... 157
Christ, The preciousness of 228
Christ is all in all 161
"Come unto Me's " of Jesus 154
Comes of our Lord Jesus Christ .... 96
Comes of the Old Testament 207
Comes of the New Testament 207
Comes (seven other) 96
Come 97
Come, God's invitation to 99
Cries with which Christ was met
(fourteen) 98
CONTENTS.
259
Careless one 121
Cling to the mighty one (poem).... 121
Christian's walk, The 224-224, 224
Christian work 121, 122, 122
Christian's state, The 167
Christians, How to be like Jesus. ... 180
Christian's blessedness, The 168
Christian's three R's, The 168
Christian's hiding place. The 169
Christian's calling, The 170
Christian, What is a 167
Christian, What he may be 167
Christian's armour 176
Christians 180
Christian unities 215
Christian's home (poem) 181
Covenant of God with his people . . 136
Covenants of man with man towards
God 136
Covenant, God's 136
Comforts for Christian travellers. . . . 169
Choose the things that please me . . 178
Church, The, and its officers 218
Consecration 180
Confession of sin 207
Confessing Christ 159
Chance 207
Conversion 210-210. . 210
Contrast between Christ and His
people 230
Contrasts, Scripture- 233
Contrast and similarity of Christ's
Teaching 232
Chosen 222
Contrasts 232
Cities of Refuge, Six 254
Dost thou believe on the Son of
God ? 92
Door of mercy will not always be
open 116
Day of the Lord, The 160
Days of heaven on earth 198
Deliver 203
Dew Drops 208
Divine shall, The 220
Doubt 215
Duty to Christ, the Mediator ...... 159
Day of the Lord 160
Eternal life, the gift of God 100
Epistle to the Philippians 149
Established 177
. Everlasting 219, 229
Eight withouts 253
Ecc. ix, 14-18 219
Furnished for work 85
Forgiveness 97, 192
Forgiveness of sins, The 229
For whom did Jesus die ? 97
Fool, The Ill, III, III
Fear not 116, 227
Fruit bearing 134
Father 142
Father, My 143
Faithful 157
Fellowship with God and results. . . . 185
Fellowship as presented in i John . . 185
Fellowship with Christ 186
Faith 191, 192, 193, 214
Faith in exercise 191
Faith, True, and its fruits 192
Faith, W^hat we gain by 192
Faith, What we do by 192
Face shone, Their 152
Following Jesus 226
From the midst of the cloud 201
From suffering to glory 213
Filled 222
Fifteen sevens in Revelation 254
Four suppers 253
Four horses 255
Four faithful sayings 253
Four precious blesseds 253
Five places 253
Five heavenlies in Ephesians 253
God the giver 93^ 140
God gives to all 140
God gives to believers 139
God will keep you 116
God's description of His Word 127,
127, 128, 129, 129
God's description of the unconverted 98
God's thought 135
God's order 228
God's words 96, 135
God's fear nots 227
God's countenance, Shining of 136
God's gifts 137
God's unspeakable gift 137
God's knowledge of men 140
God's people, farmers 141
God's people, traders '. 141
God's people, pilgrims 141
God's eye everywhere 143
God's presence 143
God's word, way, will — perfect 144
God's arm 232
God's sovereignty 144
God, Our .* 134
God's word. Read orderly 48
God, Titles of 135
God our Rock 135
God himself. Two things taught by 136
God, The will of 138
God, Names apostles give 139
God, Twelve thoughts about 139
God is love 136
God our guide J39
God delivers His people from 140
God calls His people to 140
God, Great things of 139
God, Dependence on 142
God, Deep things of 142
God, I believe in 142
God, Things prepared by 143
26o
CONTENTS.
Great Physician, The 102
Great facts, twelve ,. .118, 118, 119, 120
Great facts, three 114
Gospel of your salvation 90
Grace abounding 147
Grace 156
Good Shepherd, The 162
Gentleness 217
Girded 222
Giving 226
Glad tidings 227
Golden rules for Christians, Twelve. 255
Gifts in the unspeakable gift 137
Glorious state of heaven's redeemed 256
Holy Scriptures 86
Holy Spirit, what it does 166
Holy Spirit, The 165, 166
Holy Spirit, Twice sevenfold de-
scription of 239
Holy Spirit, Office or work of 165
Holy Ghost, Emblems of 167
Holy Spirit, Person and work of the 165
Holiness 194
Holiness or Sanctification 193
Holy living or self examination .... 195
Holiness, The way of 195
How to use the Bible 254
Helps for inquirers 97
Helpful passages for seekers 102
Hell 114
He is able 116
Himself 151
Hebrews, chapters i and 2 158
Heaven, Felicity of 197
Heaven 197, 256
Happiness '. . . 220
Holdfast 220
Holdfasts, Nine. . . .• 255
Harvest 220
Harvest lessons 221
Hope of the Gospel, The 222
Henceforth 255, 256
House of many mansions 71
Hiding place 232
Hitherto 255
"I" 153
Invitations 93
Incentives, The 130
If 96
In our natural state, &c 102
Individual responsibility in
"I wills" of Christ 155
"I ams " of Christ 155
I am thine : 222
Isaiah, Thirty-fifth chapter 220
[nvalid's nosegay 223
[esus Christ our sin bearer 96
Jesus Christ a living Saviour 97
Jesus Christ our Saviour 96
Jesus Christ the source of peace .... 97
Jesus Christ 148, 149
Jesus loved and gave himself 147
Jesus the prince of peace 147
Jesus, Hourly thoughts of 150
Jesus the light 152
Jesus sat down, &c 156
Jesus is mine (poem) 164
Jesus only 149
Jesus himself 150
Just like Jesus 154
Jesus : three commands with re-
ference to Himself 158
Jesus, The cries of 157
Jesus, The words of 154
Jehovah-Jireh 156
Justification ....102, 201, 201, 201, 220
Justified, Being 202
Joy in Him 203
Joy of the Lord, The 203
Joy 204, 204
Job xix. 8, 9, 10 210
Judgment 223
King, The 145
King, They saw the face of the .... 146
Kingdom of God — kingdom of
Heaven 197
Lord, The, Jesus 225
Lord our helper. The 141
Lord, our strength. The 141
Lord's people. The 144
Lord's hands, The 155
Lord, The right hand of the 139
Love is of God 144
Love, In 181
Love of the Infinite God 145
Love — Word — Believe — Live 255
Love to the brethren 224
Loving hints. Eight 254
Look to Jesus, When to 154
Look to Jesus 154
Law and grace ... 206
Life, The book of 220
Lights — His people 153
Misery requires mercy 96
Much fruit 134
Man's responsibility 144
Me's of Jesus , 153
Manifestation of Christ to the world
by His people 180
Meekness 217, 218
Moon, The, anemblemof the church 218
Mountain gloom and mountain
glory 234
Mile stones on the way 229
Never man spake like this man .... 150
No other name 156
Now 309
Now, The believer's 99
New life and new way 210
New things about the new name. ... 210
New birth 211
New life 212
New 211
Our state by nature 97
CONTENTS.
261
Oui warrant for coming to Christ. . IC9
Our salvation is 103
Our example 159
Our Father 144
One another 187
Overcometh, He that 180
One things of the Bible 216
One or the other, which? 216
Opportunities, The 131, 132
Peace with God Ii6
Peace, False lOO
Peace, God gives His people 147
Peace 202, 202, 202
Preach — what and how 143
Power 228
Portrait of a Christian lady 169
Promises, Exceeding great and
precious 20Q
Promises 200, 200
Pleasing the Lord 177
Power, The 126
Preparation, The 125
Promises, Hourly 201
Past and present of the children of
God 174
Past, present and future 228
Precious thought, A 202
Precious things of Peter, Five 237
Partakers of the Bible 186
Partakers 187, 187
Privileges of the saints 187
Prayer 199, 199, 200, 200
Praise — Rejoice 204
Prayer, Three things Christ gives
us in 255
Prayer, Jesus the man of 199
Positions in prayer 199
Prayers answered, Six 254
Pardon 202
Pith and essence of gospel in two
words 219
Places, Five 253
Psalm ciii 228
Present salvation for you 112
Priesthood of Christ 235
Priesthood of believers 236
Pour contempt on all my pride .... 223
P.ock, Christ the 148
Rock, The 148
Piches in glory 173
Remedies for spiritual maladies.... 208
Ready 212
Roll 222
Rain 222
Regeneration. 103, 211
Reconciliation, God's way of 98
"Song of the Redeemed , . . , . 104
State by nature 93
Saviour-God 89
Sinner and Saviour ICX), loi
Soul's cry and Saviour's answer. ... 90
Suddenly 107
Sin, God's testimony of 108
Speaking and working 122
Shepherd, The good 148
Seven solemn questions 116, 117
Seven things about sin 252
Seven things said of the believer's sins 250
Seven things the believer should
remember about the flesh, 250
Seven things about Christ 250
Seven are's in i Cor. vi 251
Seven allusions to one thing 238, 251
Seven reasons for coming to the
Lord's Supper 252
Seven weepings of Joseph and Israel 252
Seven marks of regeneration 241
Seven musts of the Gospel 237
Seven links in a wondrous chain 224
Seven indispensable things 238
Seven aspects of v/orship 238
Seven able's 238
Seven delivers 238
Seven rests of Scripture 239
Sevenfold view of God 239
Seven Apostolic commandments 239
Sevenfold virtue of the blood 240
Seven now's 240
Seven precious things 240
Seven beatitudes from the Psalms . . . 241
Seven blesseds of Revelation . .241, 249
Seven mysteries of the New Testa-
ment 242
Seven commands as to our speech . . 242
Seven daily things 242
Seven questions of our Lord 242
Seven thoughts about looking to
Jesus 243
Seven cries of the Redeemer on the
cross , 243*
Seven henceforths 243
Seven eternals in Hebrews 243
Seven beholds 242, 253
Seven fellowships 243
.Seven cups 243
Seven trumpets 243
Seven cautions 242
Seven one things 245
Seven references to "the Lamb" in
Revelation 244
Seven rocks , 244
Seven crowns 244
Seven hopes 244
Seven mounts 244
Seven assurances 244
Seven promises for seven states of need 244
Seven togethers .237, 245, 249, 245, 249
Seven withouts 245
Seven rewards to overcomers 244
Seven new things 246
Seven two's 246
Seven things that fail net 246
Seven things about peace 247
Seven things, gifts of God 248
262
CONTENTS.
Seven things to which we should take
heed 247
Seven proofs of Christ's Divinity . . , 248
Seven offices of the Spirit in John . . 249
Seven steps of the wicked 237
Seven steps 237
Seven things the unsaved have. ... 96
Seven things the Lord hates 237
Seven things about peace 237
Seven things that fail 238
Seven things God did for Noah .... 238
Seven things to hold fast 238
Seven things opened 239
Seven things worth having 240
Seven things worth knowing 241
Seven therefore's of Romans 238
Seven walks 237
Seven one's 237
Sevenfold aspect of the believer's
responsibility 242
Sevenfold trials of our Lord at the
end of His earthly life 243
Sevenfold consecration 244
Sevenfold power of Christ 245
Sevenfold measure of blessing 247
Saved, Happiness of the 107
Salvation, Assurance of 107
Search the Scriptures 86
Separation 139
Second coming of Christ 162
Spirit, The 165
Service 171
Saint's portion and inheritance.,.. 176
Suggestions for young Christians .... 178
Suggestions to young Christians. ... 178
Steadfastness 180
Sanctification 103, 195
Steps in backsliding 206
Swarm of Scripture bees 212
Strong in the Lord 213
Such an offer 213
Shall, The, nots of John's Gospel. . 220
Scripture emblems 88
St. Paul tells of His own conversion 228
Study of Christ as the model teacher 159
Suppers, Four 255
Sabbath observance 234
Sabbath, The 234
Thanksgiving, The 216
Things worth knowing 104
Things worth having 105
Three steps of the lost 253
Three warfares 253
Things worth knowing 204
Things in 2 Colossians vii 237
Traits of Christian character 181
Truly our fellowship is with the
Father 189
Twenty-third Psalm 208
Temptation 214
Trumpets 214
Trust 215, 215^ 215
Teach me 219
Twin Scripture doctrine 219
Take heed 223
Tabernacle and its teachings 22S
Teachers S. S. decalogue 229
Thoughts 219
This great sight 22a
Unbelief, Consequences of 99
Universal time-table 99
Until He come 164
Voices of Jesus 157
Very short and very long 235
Vines 204
Word, Thy 86.
Word of God, Preciousness and
power of the 86
Word of God 8&
Word of God in effecting salvation,
The 87
Word of God, The 87, 88
Word of God, Preach the 86
What shall I do with Christ 96
What God says of my sins when I
trust in Christ lOO
What is sin ? 116
Where are your sins? 214.
What Christ has done 157
What Christ is doing 157
What Christ will do 157
What the Comforter shall do 166
What we have by believing in Christ 169
What we are 205
What we have 205
Wonders, Revelation, Six 254
Waiting 145
Words, Our 135
What we know 206'
What weknownot 206
What we have not 206
What is religion 211
What may we learn from the takes
of the Bible 216
What thinkest thou 223
Who are invited 116
Whosoever 205
Works, We cannot be saved by ... . 116
Work, Jesus has finished the 116
Worker's ticket 122
Works, Good 103
Work, The 122
Worker, The 125
*' Wells" 204
Wanted for our country 219-
Windows of the Bible, The 222
Why men do not believe in Christ. . no
Why should we love Jesus 223
Walk, How to 224
Walking with God 225
Winning souls 135
You may know that you are safe . . 97
II SEIECTIOI FROM THE MmOGOE OF F, H, REKELL,
BOOKS BElPfUl IN BIBIK STUDf AND BIBLE WOEK.
#** Full Catalogues sent free to any address on application.
<^lad Tidings ; a book for inquirers. By Robert Boyd, D.D., with preface
by D. L. Moody, 12mo. 100 pp. A cheap edition in paper, for circulation, 25 cts.
Cloth, neat, 50 cts.
This book has been used largely in connection with the great revival meet-
ings, both in Great Britain and in this land. Mr. Moody has used it largely
in his work, giving away many thousand copies.
My Inquiry Meeting ,• or, Plain Truths for Anxious Souls. By Robert
Boyd, D.D., author of " Glad Tidings," " Young Converts," etc. 64 pp, 15 cts.
Cloth, 25 cts.
For simplicity, clearness and force of statement we have met with nothing
that equals this little volume. — The Interior.
May Christian's Dance ? By James H. Brookes, D.D. 144 pp
i6mo, 25 cts. ; Cloth, 60 cts.
This book should be largely circulated.
How to be Saved; or, the Sinner Directed to the Saviour,
By J. H. Brookes, D.D. 120 pp. Paper, 25 cts.; Cloth, 50 cts.
Clifton Springs Bible Headings. Containing the Bible Readings and
addresses given at the Conference of Believers, at Clifton Springs, N. Y., by
Messrs. Brookes, Erdman, Whittle, Needham, Whittlesey, Parsons, Clarke
Marvin and Others.|140 pp., sq. 16mo. cloth, fine, 50 cts. ; Paper Covers, 25 cts'
Christian's Secret of a Happy life, (The) By H. W. S. (Mrs. R.
Pearsall Smith) author of Record of a Happy Life. 12mo. cloth, neat, $1 00
Paper Covers, 50 cts.
A book we unhesitatingly recommend ; it should be largely circulated.
Doubts Removed, By C^sar Malan, D.D. " It contains the clearest
statements and illustrations on the subject treated we have ever met with, and
will be of great service to doubting Christians." Paper covers, 6 cts.; per
doz., 50 cts.
Symbolic Structure of the Gospel of St, John, A study. By W.
J. Erdman.
The writer of this study of 104 pages traces the symbolic progress of Jesus
as the glory of God through the Gospel of John as through the courts and
holy places of the Temple at Jerusalem. The work also contains, besides an
Analysis of the Gospel, brief marginal Bible Readings, illustrating the Analysis.
104 pp., sq. 16mo, 30 cts.
Grace and Truths under twelve different aspects. By W. P. Mackay, A. M.
Seventh edition. 12mo. pp. 272. Paper, 50 cts. ; Cloth, fine, $1 00.
Mr. Moody says of this work : " I know of no book in print better adapted
to aid in the work of him who would be a winner of souls, or to place in the
hands of the unconverted."
During four years' work Mr. Moody gave away over 10,000 copies of this
book to inquirers and young converts.
'** fJesus is Coming,'' Fifteenth thousand. Enlarged edition. A pamphlet
of one hundred and sixty pages.
The object of this little work has been to furnish in an abreviated form, a
handbook that might serve as a convenient reference volume in the study of
this truth, and as an aid in the presentation of it to others. Cloth, 50 cts. ;
Paper Cover, 15 cts.
JLife and Light, A book for anxious ones and young converts. By an Evan-
gelist, price, 25 cts.
Being the outlines of a few addresses, and the substance of conversations
and correspondence with inquirers, and an exposition of many difficult passages.
Mcintosh, C. H, ('' C. H, M.'') Notes by C. H. M.
Genesis $1 oo
Exodus 1 00
Leviticus i oo
Numbers 1 oo
The. set of four volumes sent postpaid for $3.50.
The notes on each book are complete in one volume, and are most precious
and edifying expositions.
Mr. D. L. Moody says of these books: "They have been to me a very key to
the Scriptures.''
Mr.^ D. W. Whittle says : *' Under God they have blessed me more than any
books, outside of the Bible itself, that I have ever read, and have led me ta
a love of the Bible that is proving an unfailing source of profit."
Regeneration, What is it ? 52d thousand. Paper Cover, 10 cts. ; per doz.,
75 cts. ; Flexible Cloth, 25 cts.
Addresses by D. L. Moody. Revised by himself. Containing twelve of Mr.
Moody's most affective sermons, selected and revised by himself. A valuable
book for r-,iculating. Paper, 35 cts. ; Cloth, 60 cts.
How to Study the^JBihle, By D. L. Moodv. Revised. A valuable little
work which should be carefully read and studied by all who desire to enjoy the
study of the Word. Paper Cover, 15 cts. ; per doz., $1 25 ; Cloth, flexible, 25 cts.
The Way and the Word, By D. L. Moody.
Paper, 25 cts.; Cloth, 40 cts.
The Second Coming of Christ, ByD. L.Moody. Revised from original
notes. 32 pages and cover. Price, 15 cts. ; per dozen, $1 25.
We trust this pamphlet will be widely circulated, thus calling attention ta
this important subject and most precious truth.
Inquiry Meetings, By Messrs. Moody and Whittle. Comprising " How
to conduct Inquiry Meetings," by D. L. Moody, and " The Use of the Bible
in Inquiry Meetings," by D. W. Whittle. 40 pages and cover. Price, 15 cts.;.
per dozen, $1 25.
Pre~millennial Essays of the Prophetic Conference. The full and author-
ized edition of the essays and addresses of the late Prophetic Conference held
in New York City.
To which is added an appendix of Critical Testimonies, translated from the
first scholarship of Germany and other countries. Issued in one large 12mo.
volume of 500 pp. Price, $2 00.
Scientific and Religious Discoveries in the Great Pyramid^
(The) recently made by Prof. Piazza Smyth, Astronomer Royal for Scot-
land, and by other noted Scholars. Compiled by Wm. H. Wilson. Illustrated
with several diagrams. 64 pp., sq., 16mo, 25 cts. ; Cloth, 50 cts.
To say that the facts herein set forth are wonderful is far below the truth.
Many are so marvelous, and the deductions from them are so important, that
no Christian can afford to pass them by. Many will reject the conclusions of
the writer, none can resist the facts, and they should be known.
Symbols and System in Bible Reading, By Rev. W. F. Crafts, giv-
ing a plan of Bible Reading, with fifty verses definitely assigned for each day.
The Bible being arranged with much labor in the order of its events. The
entire Symbolism of the Bible also explained concisely and clearly ; 100 hints
on Bible Marking and Bible Reading are added. Price, only 25 cts.
True Tabernacle f (TJie)
A series of lectures on the Jewish Tabernacle and its typical signification.
By Geo. C. Needham. Illustrated, cloth, neat, 75 cts.
Mr. Needham's exposition of these Old Testament types have created a
deep interest in Christian circles. The present series of lectures will prove a
great help to Bible students.
Woman's Ministry, By Mrs. Geo. C. Needham. A series of addresses fall
of practical suggestions and clear biblical exposition. 146 pp., 16mo cloth,
fine, 75 cts.
Walking Worthy of God. A reprint from the works of Rev. John Flavel,
with an introduction by (and published at the request of) D. W. Whittle. A
valuable little work for circulation. An incentive to consistent Christian liv-
ing. Sq., 16mo., 43 pp., 15 cts.
/■i i